June 9, (THEWILL)- The road to 2026 FIFA World Cup, to be hosted jointly by the United States, Mexico and Canada, has been a treacherous one for the Nigerian national football team, the Super Eagles. Three consecutive draws against Lesotho, Zimbabwe and South Africa have left the country’s hopes of securing a spot in the prestigious tournament hanging by a thread, with the team currently languishing in fifth place in the six-team Group C.
The disappointment of failing to qualify for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar was a bitter pill to swallow for Nigerian football fans, but the current qualifying campaign has been nothing short of a nightmare. The team has struggled to assert its dominance against opponents they were expected to comfortably dispatch.
Under the supervision of former head coach, Jose Peseiro, the Super Eagles kicked off their qualifying campaign with a lacklustre 1-1 draw against Lesotho at home. Despite efforts from Kelechi Iheanacho and Taiwo Awoniyi going close, and Semi Ajayi’s eventual equaliser, this result was met with widespread criticism and disbelief, as the team’s performance fell well short of expectations. The Minister of Sports Development, Sen. John Owan-Enoh, expressed his dissatisfaction with the result, highlighting the importance Nigeria places on qualifying for the 2026 tournament.
The draw against Lesotho was compounded by another disappointing 1-1 stalemate against Zimbabwe in Rwanda. Despite making several changes to the starting lineup, including introducing substitutes Bright Osayi-Samuel, Iheanacho and Victor Boniface, the Super Eagles struggled to impose themselves on the game, failing to capitalise on their possession and failing to create clear-cut chances. Joe Aribo’s assist for Moses Simon, who set up Iheanacho’s equaliser, was a rare bright spot. This result left the team tied on two points with Zimbabwe in the group standings, setting the stage for a challenging road ahead.
The appointment of Finidi George as the new head coach brought a glimmer of hope for a resurgence, but the 1-1 draw against South Africa in the team’s most recent qualifier has only deepened the concern surrounding the team’s performances.
Falling behind early through Themba Zwane’s strike, the Super Eagles were unable to exert control and were salvaged by Fisayo Dele-Basiru’s equalizer, ultimately ensuring a share of the spoils. Opportunities for Samuel Chukwueze and Paul Onuachu, who was started over Victor Boniface, were squandered.
Several key factors have contributed to this concerning slump. First, the lack of cutting edge has been a glaring issue. Despite boasting a talented squad with the likes of Iheanacho, Awoniyi, Boniface, and Onuachu, the Super Eagles have struggled to translate their quality into clinical finishing and decisive moments in front of goal. Missed chances and a lack of killer instinct have plagued the team, allowing lesser opponents to capitalise on their wastefulness.
Secondly, defensive lapses have been a recurring decimal. While the Nigerian defence has shown resilience in patches, individual errors and lapses in concentration have cost the team dearly. Conceding soft goals against opponents they should be dominating has been a concerning trend, highlighting the need for greater focus and discipline at the back to help goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali maintain his stance in between the sticks.
Thirdly, questions have been raised about the tactical approach adopted by both Peseiro and George. While the team has enjoyed spells of possession, they have often lacked the creativity and incisiveness to break down organised defences. A more dynamic and adaptable game plan may be required to unlock stubborn opposition, potentially involving players like Samuel Chukwueze and Moses Simon more effectively.
Lastly, the inclusion or exclusion of certain players has been a topic of debate, with some questioning the rationale behind certain selections or substitutions. Finding the right balance and maximising the team’s potential by getting the best out of players like Iheanacho, Awoniyi, Boniface, and Onuachu will be crucial moving forward.
As the qualifiers resume against Benin Republic, the pressure is mounting on Finidi George and his squad to shed the shackles of these 1-1 draws and return to winning ways. Failure to do so could potentially consign Nigeria to the unthinkable – missing out on consecutive World Cup tournaments, a scenario that would be a devastating blow to the nation’s footballing pride and reputation.
To turn the tide, the Super Eagles must rediscover their fighting spirit and unwavering belief in their abilities. A renewed focus on converting chances, tightening up defensively, and embracing a more adaptable tactical approach could be the keys to unlocking their full potential. George and his coaching staff must find a way to get the best out of their attacking talents, while also ensuring a solid defensive foundation is in place.
The midfield dynamo of Wilfred Ndidi, especially now that he appears fully fit, could provide the much-needed steel and composure to control games, while the likes of Moses Simon, Samuel Chukwueze, and Bright Osayi-Samuel could offer the creativity and flair to unlock defences. However, finding the right balance and cohesion within the team will be crucial for George.
Additionally, the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) must provide unwavering support to the technical crew, addressing any squad selection concerns and ensuring that the team has access to the best resources and facilities to prepare adequately for each match. Failure to do so could further exacerbate the problems plaguing the team.
The road ahead is undoubtedly challenging, but Nigeria’s rich footballing history and the passion of its fans demand nothing less than a spirited fightback. The Super Eagles have faced adversity before and emerged victorious, and this current crop of players must draw inspiration from the successes of the past.
With the right mentality, tactical nous, and collective effort, the Super Eagles can still salvage their qualifying campaign and secure their place at the 2026 World Cup. However, it will require a level of commitment and determination that has been sorely lacking in recent performances.
As a nation that has produced some of the greatest footballing talents and achieved remarkable feats on the global stage, it is imperative that Nigeria rises to the occasion and reclaims its rightful place among the elite of international football. The fans, the nation, and the world are watching, eagerly anticipating a resurgence that will reignite the pride and glory associated with the iconic green and white jerseys.
Failure is not an option for the Super Eagles, as the consequences of missing out on another World Cup would be devastating for the country’s football development and the aspirations of its passionate supporters. The time for excuses and mediocrity has passed – it is now time for action, determination, and a relentless pursuit of excellence on the pitch.
Only through a collective effort, from the players, coaches, administrators, and fans, can Nigeria overcome this challenging period and emerge as a force to be reckoned with once again on the global stage. The journey may be arduous, but the rewards of restoring the nation’s footballing pride make it all worthwhile.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
