The Super Eagles of Nigeria have found themselves in a difficult position in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, following a disappointing start to their campaign. With no wins in their first four matches, the three-time African champions sit second from bottom in their six-team group, trailing South Africa, Rwanda, and Benin Republic by four points.
Their struggles have raised concerns among fans and stakeholders, but South Africa’s head coach, Hugo Broos, remains optimistic that Nigeria will bounce back in the next qualification window.
A Slow Start and Mounting Pressure
Nigeria’s qualification campaign began on a shaky note, with draws against Lesotho, Zimbabwe, and South Africa before suffering a shocking 2-1 defeat to Benin Republic.
These results have placed them in a precarious situation, with only three points from a possible 12. Given that only the top team in each group qualifies automatically for the World Cup, the Eagles must start winning immediately if they are to keep their hopes alive.
In response to the poor run, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has appointed Franco-Malian coach Eric Chelle to steer the team back on track. Chelle, who led Mali to the quarter-finals of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, brings a fresh perspective and tactical discipline that Nigeria desperately needs.
However, he will have to navigate key fixtures with a squad facing injury concerns.
Squad Challenges and Injury Worries
As Nigeria prepares for the crucial matches against Rwanda and Zimbabwe next month, they have been hit by injuries to important players, including William Troost-Ekong, Semi Ajayi, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, and Raphael Onyedika. Their potential absence could leave gaps in the squad, particularly in defense and midfield, areas where the team has already struggled.
Despite these setbacks, Nigeria still boasts an attacking lineup filled with top-quality talent. Reigning African Footballer of the Year, Victor Osimhen, alongside Victor Boniface and Ademola Lookman, provides the firepower needed to turn results around. If Chelle can harness their potential and get the midfield to function effectively, Nigeria could still mount a strong comeback.
Broos’ Confidence in Nigeria’s Quality
Despite Nigeria’s struggles, South Africa’s head coach, Hugo Broos, remains convinced that the Super Eagles have the ability to recover. Speaking to ScoreNigeria, Broos expressed his surprise at Nigeria’s position in the group but believes their quality will shine through in the upcoming matches.
“I am surprised that Nigeria is four points behind us because they have too much quality,” Broos said. “I believe they will come back by the next window (March). All the teams in our group are still in the running to qualify for the World Cup.”
Broos’ comments highlight the unpredictability of the qualifiers, with all teams still in contention. Nigeria must now capitalize on this opportunity and prove they belong at the top.
The Road to Redemption
Nigeria’s path to qualification remains open, but there is no more room for error. The next two games against Rwanda and Zimbabwe are must-win encounters. A strong showing in these fixtures could reignite their campaign, especially if other teams in the group drop points.
Meanwhile, South Africa will host Lesotho before facing Benin Republic at home. Should any of the group leaders falter, Nigeria could close the gap significantly and position themselves back in contention for qualification.
What Needs to Change?
To turn things around, Nigeria must address key tactical and psychological issues. Here are some crucial steps they need to take:
1. Tactical Discipline and Defensive Organization
- Nigeria’s defense has been shaky, conceding crucial goals in key moments. Eric Chelle must ensure the team is more compact and disciplined at the back, even in the absence of Troost-Ekong and Ajayi.
- A clear defensive structure, possibly with a deeper-lying midfield to protect the backline, will be essential.
2. Midfield Control and Creativity
- The Super Eagles have struggled to dominate midfield battles, which has affected their attacking transitions. Chelle needs to find the right balance between defensive solidity and creative play.
- A playmaker like Alex Iwobi or a deeper-lying creator must be given the freedom to dictate the tempo.
3. Maximizing Attacking Talent
- With Osimhen, Boniface, and Lookman available, Nigeria has the attacking power to beat any team in the group. The coach must develop a system that allows these players to thrive.
- Service from the flanks and midfield must improve to ensure Osimhen and Boniface get more chances in front of goal.
4. Strong Mentality and Team Spirit
- The team must overcome any psychological setbacks from their poor start and approach the next games with confidence.
- Leadership on the pitch will be crucial, with experienced players stepping up to inspire the younger ones.
While Nigeria’s World Cup qualification hopes have been dented, they are far from over. The appointment of Eric Chelle, along with a squad brimming with talent, means the Super Eagles still have a fighting chance.
However, they must make immediate adjustments in tactics, mentality, and execution to secure vital wins in their next fixtures.
As Hugo Broos rightly pointed out, Nigeria has too much quality to be written off. The coming months will determine whether they can rise to the occasion or face the painful reality of missing out on the 2026 World Cup.
