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Just weeks ago, Nigeria’s path to the 2026 FIFA World Cup looked bleak. A sluggish start to the qualifiers, coupled with injury setbacks and tactical uncertainty, had fans bracing for another painful absence after failing to qualify for Qatar 2022.
With the last set of matches looming, the Super Eagles are gearing up for a make-or-break moment in their qualification journey, and the mood across the nation is electric. The team is hungry after missing out of the last edition. There seem to be a collective resolve to make amends, and fans across the country are rallying behind them.
Head coach Eric Chelle has unveiled a bold 23-man squad for the October double-header against Lesotho and Benin Republic, and fans are buzzing with optimism.
Leading the charge for the team is Galatasaray’s goal machine, Victor Osimhen, back from injury and ready to reignite the attack. Fulham’s midfield maestro, Alex Iwobi and Atalanta’s dynamic winger, Ademola Lookman, flank him. Captain William Troost-Ekong returns to anchor the defence, while Sevilla’s Akor Adams earns his first senior call-up – a surprise that has fans talking.
Coach Chelle’s selection mixes seasoned internationals with rising stars like Olakunle Olusegun and Benjamin Fredrick, signaling a new era of tactical flexibility and youthful energy.
“We’ve built a squad that can fight, adapt, and win. These boys know what’s at stake,” Chelle said in a press briefing. “We are not just chasing points; we are chasing pride, legacy, and a place on the world stage.”
Injuries have hit hard. Bright Osayi-Samuel and Cyriel Dessers are sidelined, which prompted late call-ups for Zaidu Sanusi and Christantus Uche. Nevertheless, Chelle remains unfazed.
“Every setback is a setup for a comeback,” he said. “We’ve got depth, and we’ve got heart.”
With the group now delicately poised, Nigeria’s path to the World Cup is clearer, but not guaranteed. Two wins could push them to 17 points, potentially enough for automatic qualification. If not, they will battle for one of Africa’s best runner-up spots.
Nigeria currently sit third in Group C with 11 points, trailing Benin and South Africa by three after a recent FIFA ruling docked South Africa three points for fielding an ineligible player, throwing the group wide open.
Victory against Lesotho on 10 October in Polokwane would put Nigeria level with the leaders. Then comes the showdown in Uyo on 14 October against Benin – a match that could seal Nigeria’s ticket to the World Cup in Canada, Mexico and the US.
Former internationals are sounding the alarm and rallying support:
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“This is our moment,” posted former Super Eagles striker Obafemi Martins. “Osimhen is back, the midfield is stacked, and the fans are behind them. Let’s go!”
“This is not the time for experiments,” said Friday Ekpo, ex-Super Eagles midfielder. “Chelle must go with his most trusted players. These are must-win games.”
“We’ve been handed a lifeline,” added Dimeji Lawal, former winger. “But it’s only useful if we grab it with both hands. The boys must play with fire.”
“The fans deserve a team that fights,” said Ifeanyi Udeze, ex-defender. “We missed Qatar. We can’t miss North America.”
Nigerians across social media are also rallying behind the team:
@NaijaTactics: “FIFA just gave us a second chance. If we mess this up, we don’t deserve to go to the World Cup.”
@NaijaFootyFan: “Chelle’s squad is fire. Osimhen + Lookman = goals galore. Uyo will be rocking!”
@EaglesTillIDie: “We’ve got the talent. We have the hunger. Time to show Africa who runs this game.”
@SuperEaglesHQ: “Two wins. That is all we need. Let’s paint the continent green!”
@EaglesUnleashed: “Osimhen is fit. Chukwueze is hungry. Uyo will be electric. Let’s do this!”
This October is not just about points. It is about fight and purpose. The Super Eagles have been handed a lifeline. Now, it is time to grab it with both wings.
The world is watching. As the build-up begins, one thing is certain: the Super Eagles are ready to soar.
