Nigeria’s Super Eagles are under pressure to revive their 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign as they face Rwanda and Zimbabwe in crucial Group C matches. Despite boasting star players like Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman, Nigeria has struggled in the qualifiers, sitting fifth in a six-team group after disappointing draws with Lesotho, Zimbabwe, and South Africa, followed by a shocking loss to Benin.
The Super Eagles, seeded to win the group and secure automatic qualification, have endured a turbulent period since finishing as runners-up at the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations. The team has seen three coaching changes in quick succession, with locals Finidi George and Augustine Eguavoen making way for current coach Eric Chelle.
Chelle, who was fired by Mali after a poor start to their World Cup campaign, acknowledges the challenges ahead. “It’s a huge challenge,” he said, emphasizing his preference for an attacking style. “Football is about scoring goals, and I favor an attacking style.”
Nigeria’s first test comes against Rwanda in Kigali, a team that has proven to be a thorn in their side. During the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, Rwanda held Nigeria to a 0-0 draw in Kigali and stunned them with a 2-1 victory in Uyo. The Super Eagles will need to be at their best to avoid another upset.
Following the Rwanda clash, Nigeria will host Zimbabwe in a must-win match. With only the group winners guaranteed automatic qualification, the Super Eagles cannot afford further slip-ups.
Other Key Matches in African Qualifiers
- Ethiopia v Egypt
Egypt, led by star forwards Mohamed Salah and Mahmoud Trezeguet, top Group A and will face Ethiopia in a match relocated to Morocco due to Ethiopia’s lack of a FIFA-approved stadium. Salah and Trezeguet have been in scintillating form, scoring 10 of Egypt’s 11 goals in the qualifiers. - Sudan v Senegal
Sudan, currently leading Group B, will host Senegal in Benghazi, Libya, due to the ongoing civil war in Sudan. Coach Kwesi Appiah has urged his players to believe in themselves against a star-studded Senegalese side led by Sadio Mane. - Gambia v Kenya
Kenya, under new coach Benni McCarthy, will aim to revive their campaign against Gambia. McCarthy, a former Manchester United assistant coach, has vowed to lead Kenya to the World Cup despite the odds. - Ghana v Chad
Ghana, reeling from a loss to Comoros, will look to bounce back against Chad. With Premier League stars like Thomas Partey and Jordan Ayew in their ranks, the Black Stars are expected to secure a comfortable win.
As the African qualifiers reach the halfway mark, Nigeria’s matches against Rwanda and Zimbabwe will be pivotal in determining their World Cup fate. The Super Eagles must rediscover their form and capitalize on their attacking talent to keep their qualification hopes alive.
