FORMER Super Eagles captain John Mikel Obi has expressed confidence that Nigeria can still qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, despite the team’s precarious position in the Group C standings.
News Point Nigeria Sports reports that with just two matches remaining, the Super Eagles sit third in Group C, trailing South Africa and Benin Republic by three points. Nigeria is set to face Lesotho in Polokwane on Friday before returning home to play Benin Republic in Uyo for their final group fixture.
Speaking on his ObiOne Podcast, the former Chelsea midfielder described Nigeria’s qualification campaign as “hanging by a thread,” but maintained that all hope is not lost if the players show unity, responsibility, and hunger to win.
“It’s going to be a crime, an absolute crime, if Nigeria doesn’t make it to the World Cup again,” Mikel said.
“We love our football too much. Our World Cup fate is in the players’ hands. They have to win these two games, no excuses.”
The 37-year-old, who captained the Super Eagles at the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia, said he remains in close contact with several members of the current squad and has urged them to show leadership and accountability, both on and off the field.
“At this stage, every off-field problem goes out the window. It’s about the players now,” Mikel declared.
“They must take responsibility and deliver. Nigerians are counting on them.”
While acknowledging ongoing administrative challenges within the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Mikel insisted that the players must stay focused on the immediate task of securing six crucial points from their final two matches.
“Yes, there are problems in the NFF, everyone knows that—but right now, that doesn’t matter. Win your two games first. The rest we can discuss later,” he added.
Mikel, who won the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and appeared in two World Cups, encouraged current squad members including Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, Alex Iwobi, Moses Simon, and Victor Boniface to emulate the spirit of unity that defined previous successful Nigerian teams.
“When I captained the team, responsibility came first. You put your frustrations aside,” Mikel explained.
“The players need to have a meeting, talk to each other, and pull together. They still have a chance, and they have the quality to do it.”
The Super Eagles have endured a turbulent qualifying campaign, marked by inconsistent performances and five draws in eight matches. Their inability to convert dominance into victories has left the team needing back-to-back wins to guarantee a place at the 2026 World Cup.
Despite the setbacks, Mikel expressed confidence that Nigeria has one of the most talented squads in Africa, capable of defeating any opponent if properly motivated.
“We have great players in every department,” he said.
“The defence is solid, the midfield is balanced, and our attackers are among the best in Africa. We just need the mentality, the hunger, and the focus to get it done.”
The Super Eagles camp officially opened in Polokwane on Monday, with head coach Finidi George leading the preparations for Friday’s clash at the Peter Mokaba Stadium.
Victory against Lesotho and Benin Republic, would not only secure qualification but also restore confidence in the once-dominant national team, which failed to reach the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.