Former international Emeka Ezeugo has expressed scepticism about the Super Eagles’ chances of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup, regardless of whether the team is led by a foreign or local coach. Ezeugo, known for his critical stance towards the Nigeria Football Federation NFF, attributes his prediction to ongoing corruption within the NFF and the desperation exhibited by some ex internationals.
The NFF is in the process of appointing a new coach to guide the Super Eagles towards the 2026 World Cup, set to be hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico. This comes after Nigeria failed to qualify for the 2022 World Cup, with the team currently ranking third in the qualifying tournament for the 2026 edition.
After two rounds of matches, Rwanda leads the group with four points, followed by South Africa with three points. The Super Eagles have secured two points from draws against Lesotho and Zimbabwe in November 2023. The team faces crucial upcoming qualifiers against South Africa and an away match in Benin, now coached by former Super Eagles coach Gernot Rohr.
Editorial
Emeka Ezeugo’s bleak forecast for the Super Eagles’ World Cup qualification campaign sheds light on deeper issues within Nigerian football governance and the challenges facing the national team. His concerns highlight the need for systemic changes within the NFF and a strategic approach to team management and development.
The Super Eagles’ struggle in the early stages of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers underscores the competitive nature of African football and the importance of strong leadership, both on and off the pitch. As Nigeria looks to secure a spot in the upcoming World Cup, the selection of the national team’s coach and the resolution of internal issues will be crucial.
The upcoming matches against South Africa and Benin represent a critical juncture for the Super Eagles. Success in these games could reignite hopes for World Cup qualification and demonstrate the team’s resilience and capability to overcome challenges.
Did You Know?
- The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be the first to feature an expanded 48 team format, introducing a new dynamic to the tournament’s structure and competition.
- Nigeria has a rich football history, with the Super Eagles qualifying for six of the last seven World Cups before the 2022 tournament.
- Emeka Ezeugo, apart from his international career with the Super Eagles, played in the 1994 FIFA World Cup and has been involved in football in various capacities post retirement.
- The rivalry between Nigeria and South Africa in football has produced some memorable matches, with both teams vying for supremacy in African football.
- Gernot Rohr, who previously coached the Super Eagles, is now at the helm of Benin, adding an intriguing subplot to the upcoming qualifiers.
