SUPER Eagles midfielder and Fulham star Alex Iwobi has expressed strong confidence that Nigeria will qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, assuring fans that the team remains fully committed to restoring national pride on the global stage.
News Point Nigeria Sports reports that speaking in an exclusive interview with SuperSport, the 28-year-old playmaker also reflected on his latest career milestone becoming the Nigerian with the joint-most appearances in the English Premier League (EPL) alongside former Newcastle United forward Shola Ameobi.
Iwobi, who began his Premier League career at Arsenal before stints at Everton and Fulham, described the achievement as an “amazing honour”, saying it reflects his consistency, discipline, and passion for the game.
“It’s amazing, honestly, to almost be the single most capped Nigerian in the EPL. I don’t really think about it while playing, I just go out there and give my best.
“But when I sit with my family and think about it, I’m like, ‘Wow, I’ve played a lot of games.’ It’s an honour to be one of the most capped Nigerian players in the Premier League,” Iwobi said.
He added that surpassing Ameobi’s record would be “a privilege,” noting that the Newcastle legend remains a symbol of hard work and longevity in English football.
On Nigeria’s qualification hopes for the 2026 World Cup, the Fulham midfielder exuded optimism, insisting that the Super Eagles possess the quality, belief, and team spirit to secure their place at the global tournament.
“Of course, we believe that we’re going to go to the World Cup; otherwise, we wouldn’t be here. We’re going to try and do our best, so hopefully the fans can continue to believe in us as well,” he affirmed.
The Super Eagles are currently preparing for a crucial phase of the qualification campaign following their narrow miss at the 2022 edition in Qatar.
Iwobi also spoke about the growing Nigerian presence at Fulham FC, where he now plays alongside fellow Super Eagles stars Calvin Bassey and Samuel Chukwueze.
He said the trio’s presence has created a unique bond both on and off the pitch, giving the West London club a new “Naija identity.”
“It’s nice to have Samuel join us not just because he’s Nigerian, but because he’s a great player and a great person. We’re technically ‘Naija FC’ now,” Iwobi joked.
“It’s not about carrying Nigeria in the Premier League; it’s just great to have another brother in the team. The chemistry and support we share make the environment special.”
Reflecting on Nigeria’s recent performances at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), Iwobi stressed the team’s desire to improve and compete for the title at the upcoming tournament.
“You’d want to win, obviously. You’d want to improve on the last one, and the only way to improve is to win it. So let’s see what we can do this year,” he stated confidently.
Nigeria last won the AFCON in 2013 under late coach Stephen Keshi, and expectations remain high for another triumph given the nation’s wealth of talent in Europe’s top leagues.
Iwobi also spoke about the profound influence of his uncle, Nigerian football legend Austin ‘Jay-Jay’ Okocha, whose flair and creativity inspired him from childhood.
He recalled one of Okocha’s most iconic Premier League moments, a solo goal for Bolton Wanderers against West Ham United that helped the club avoid relegation.
“I’m blessed to have an uncle who played in the Premier League. He once reminded me of that match at Bolton when he ran from one end to the other and smashed it into the top corner. Watching that was one of my biggest inspirations,” Iwobi said.
“I thought, ‘One day, I want to be like my uncle or even better.’ That moment really shaped my dream.”
Iwobi, who made his Premier League debut for Arsenal in 2015, has since played for Everton and now Fulham, where he continues to shine as a creative force in midfield.
With more than 270 Premier League appearances to his name, Iwobi’s longevity and discipline make him one of Nigeria’s most enduring football ambassadors.