Former Super Eagles head coach and current Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) Technical Director, Augustine Eguavoen, has expressed confidence in Nigeria’s chances of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup despite their difficult position in the group.
The three-time African champions currently sit fourth in their qualifying group and face a must-win scenario in all their remaining matches to stand a realistic chance of making it to the global showpiece.
Speaking at the Troost-Ekong Foundation Charity Match in Lagos, Eguavoen told ACL Sports that the team must adopt a one-game-at-a-time mentality and remain united.
“It’s easier said than done, but we have the potential and the personnel,” Eguavoen said.
“The World Cup is the highest level of football anyone wants to participate in. It’s a tight rope we’re walking, but everything is possible.
“With the boys we have now and every Nigerian coming together, it is doable. I’m 100% sure because the players want to be at the World Cup.”
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Eguavoen, who guided Nigeria to qualification for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations before the appointment of new head coach Eric Chelle, stressed the importance of staying focused.
“I’m not looking back at the last game, I’m looking forward to the next one. That’s the mindset: one game at a time, treat every game like a final,” he added.
On the women’s side, Eguavoen also voiced his belief in the Super Falcons, who will kick off their WAFCON 2024 campaign on July 5 in Morocco.
“We’re the best in Africa, one of the best in the world, without mincing words. We’ve got a great mix of young and experienced players, and they’ll make us proud.”
Reflecting on the Falcons’ recent performances at global tournaments, he remarked:
“I was in Morocco the last time. They finished fourth, which was unfortunate, but that’s behind us. We’ve made progress, from the World Cup to the Olympics, and I believe this team can go all the way.”
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Eguavoen urged continued support for current managers and players without distractions or interference.
“This is not a one-man show. Collectively, we can achieve success. There hasn’t been interference so far, and I believe there won’t be.”
The Super Eagles’ next World Cup qualifier is scheduled for September, while the Super Falcons will begin their campaign at the 13th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations against Tunisia.
