Former Super Eagles forward Victor Ikpeba has called on head coach Eric Chelle to give Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) players a chance in the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. Ikpeba emphasized the importance of domestic football in talent development and urged national team handlers not to overlook the wealth of talent in the NPFL.
Ikpeba, a key figure in Nigeria’s golden generation of the 1990s, encouraged local players to be confident and embrace learning, citing his own journey as an example. “I am a product of Nigeria domestic football,” Ikpeba said. “How we develop our talents is very important. The coaching, awareness, and some of the boys will be ready to learn.”
Ikpeba pointed to the upcoming African Nations Championship (CHAN), scheduled for August, as a vital opportunity for home-based players to prove themselves. “The CHAN competition is around the corner, so it is an opportunity for the players to showcase,” he said. “And I am very sure with the national team coach we have now, those who are good enough will be given the opportunity to play for the national team.”
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Nigeria’s road to the 2026 World Cup continues in September with a double-header against South Africa and Lesotho. The Super Eagles currently sit fourth in Group C with only seven points from six matches—six behind table-toppers South Africa—leaving their qualification hopes in jeopardy.
Super Eagles coaching crew led by Eric Chelle
Ikpeba’s plea to Chelle is timely, given the Super Eagles’ current struggles. With the NPFL producing talented players like Chukwubuikem Ikwuemesi, Abu Nandjou, and Sunday Adetunji, among others, Ikpeba believes that these players deserve a chance to prove themselves on the international stage.
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Ikpeba’s call to Chelle to consider NPFL stars for the World Cup qualifiers is a timely reminder of the wealth of talent in Nigerian domestic football. As the Super Eagles prepare to face South Africa and Lesotho in September, it remains to be seen whether Chelle will heed Ikpeba’s advice and give NPFL players a chance to shine on the international stage.
