The Super Eagles of Nigeria are in a precarious situation regarding qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup following a series of underwhelming results in the African qualifiers.
Their recent performances, particularly the shocking draws against Lesotho and Zimbabwe, have raised serious concerns about the team’s ability to secure a spot at the global showpiece. However, all hope is not lost.
With key adjustments in strategy, squad selection, and administration, Nigeria can still navigate its way to the tournament.
Super Eagles’ World Cup Qualification Journey So Far
Nigeria has historically been one of Africa’s strongest footballing nations, making their World Cup debut in 1994 and qualifying for six of the last seven editions (missing only the 2006 tournament).
However, their current qualification campaign has been disappointing.
The Eagles’ first two games in Group C ended in frustrating draws:
- Nigeria 1-1 Lesotho – The Super Eagles struggled to break down a resolute Lesotho defense and conceded first before rescuing a point.
- Zimbabwe 1-1 Nigeria – Another unconvincing performance saw Nigeria drop points against a lower-ranked team.
These results have left the team in a difficult position, as only the group winner secures automatic qualification. Nigeria must now avoid further slip-ups in the remaining matches while hoping that their rivals drop points.
Key Challenges Affecting Nigeria’s Qualification Campaign
- Tactical and Coaching Deficiencies
Nigeria’s lack of tactical identity under coach José Peseiro has been evident. The team has struggled with defensive organization, poor transitions, and a lack of creativity in midfield. The inability to control games against weaker opposition has also been a worrying sign. - Squad Selection and Player Form
While Nigeria boasts some of Africa’s best talents—such as Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, and Alex Iwobi—the team has lacked cohesion. Injuries and inconsistent selections have prevented them from developing chemistry on the field. Additionally, some players have been underperforming in national colors compared to their club form. - Psychological and Mental Strength
The Super Eagles have often struggled in high-pressure situations, particularly in qualifiers and tournaments. The inability to grind out results against so-called smaller teams suggests a lack of mental toughness. - Administrative Issues
Nigeria’s football federation (NFF) has been plagued by controversies, including financial issues, poor planning, and late payment of coaches and players. These distractions have undoubtedly affected the team’s morale and preparations.
What Needs to Be Done for Nigeria to Qualify?
To stand a chance of securing World Cup qualification, Nigeria must address these pressing issues:
- Tactical Overhaul
- The coach must establish a clear tactical identity that maximizes the team’s strengths, especially in attack.
- A structured defensive setup is necessary to avoid conceding cheap goals.
- The midfield needs improvement in creativity and ball retention to control games effectively.
- Better Squad Selection and Team Chemistry
- The coach must select players based on form rather than reputation.
- Key players should be given consistent roles to foster understanding.
- Fringe players should be integrated gradually rather than making wholesale changes in every game.
- Mental Toughness and Game Management
- The team must develop a winning mentality, ensuring they perform well against smaller teams.
- Senior players must take responsibility and lead by example on the pitch.
- A sports psychologist could be brought in to strengthen the team’s mental resilience.
- Stronger Administrative Support
- The NFF must ensure proper planning for matches, including early preparations and better logistics.
- Players’ bonuses and allowances must be settled promptly to avoid distractions.
- The federation should work on improving the quality of local facilities to boost training and development.
Looking Ahead: Can the Super Eagles Make It?
Nigeria’s qualification fate is still in their hands. The team has enough quality to turn things around, but it requires urgent corrective measures. The next set of qualifiers will be crucial, and any further slip-ups could prove fatal.
The return leg fixtures against Lesotho and Zimbabwe must be won convincingly, while tougher matches against South Africa and Benin will require tactical discipline.
If the Super Eagles can find their rhythm, they still stand a great chance of making it to the World Cup.
Nigeria’s path to the 2026 World Cup is not impossible, but it demands immediate and strategic action. By improving tactics, squad cohesion, mental strength, and administrative efficiency, the Super Eagles can rise to the challenge and reclaim their place among the world’s elite football nations.
Failure to do so, however, could result in another painful absence from football’s biggest stage.
