By

Patrick Ngwaogu (Odogwu)

As the remaining matches of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers approach, Nigerian football fans are eagerly anticipating the Super Eagles' campaign will be smooth. 

 

The Eagles are on fourth position with four points in four matches. It becomes more worrisome considering the quality of teams in their Group C  comprising of South Africa, Lesotho, Rwanda, and Benin Republic. 

 

With a rich football history and a passionate fan base, Nigerians are poised to see the Super Eagles make significant impact at this last stage of the qualifiers . 

 

However, the team's success is not solely dependent on the NFF, players and coaches; it requires the unwavering support of Nigerians from all walks of life.

 

The Super Eagles, Nigeria’s national football team, have long been a source of pride and excitement for millions of Nigerians. Their participation in the FIFA World Cup is often seen as a reflection of the country’s footballing talent and passion. 

 

The Super Eagles made their first World Cup appearance in 1994, hosted by the United States. With a squad featuring legends like Rashidi Yekini, Jay-Jay Okocha, and Daniel Amokachi, the team showcased African football at its finest.

 

 Nigeria topped Group D, defeating Bulgaria 3-0 and Greece 2-0. Rashidi Yekini’s opening goal against Bulgaria remains iconic, especially his passionate celebration. Nigeria faced Italy in the knockout round. Despite leading 1-0, they lost 2-1 in extra time after a masterclass from Italy’s Roberto Baggio. The 1994 World Cup cemented Nigeria’s reputation as a rising force in international football.

 

In France, the Super Eagles returned with high expectations. With stars like Sunday Oliseh and Nwankwo Kanu, they once again dazzled fans.

Nigeria defeated Spain 3-2 in one of the tournament’s most thrilling matches. They also beat Bulgaria 1-0 to advance as group winners.

 

A 4-1 loss to Denmark exposed tactical weaknesses, ending their journey earlier than anticipated.

 

Despite the disappointing exit, the 1998 campaign highlighted Nigeria’s potential to compete with football’s world best.

 

The 2002 World Cup in South Korea and Japan was a challenging outing for Nigeria. Placed with Argentina, England, and Sweden, the Super Eagles managed only one point, drawing with England. The team lacked cohesion and consistency, leading to their early elimination.

 

The 2002 campaign underscored the importance of preparation and unity in achieving success.

 

After missing the 2006 World Cup, Nigeria qualified for the 2010 edition in South Africa, the first World Cup hosted on African soil. Nigeria lost to Argentina and Greece before drawing with South Korea. They failed to advance, earning just one point.

The 2010 World Cup demonstrated the need for strategic planning to compete on the global stage. Under coach Stephen Keshi, the Super Eagles regained their form in the 2014 World . Nigeria defeated Bosnia and Herzegovina 1-0 and drew with Iran to advance to the Round of 16. Facing France, the Super Eagles lost 2-0, but their overall performance was seen as a step in the right direction.

 

Keshi’s leadership highlighted the importance of having a competent coach to guide the team. In Russia, the Super Eagles faced Argentina, Croatia, and Iceland in the group stage. Ahmed Musa’s brace in the 2-0 victory over Iceland remains a tournament highlight. In a decisive match against Argentina, Nigeria needed a draw to advance but lost 2-1 after a late goal by Marcos Rojo.

 

The 2018 campaign demonstrated Nigeria’s potential but also the fine margins that separate success from failure in the World Cup.

 

Challenges faced by the Super Eagles at the World Cup includes lack of proper preparation which has often undermined the team’s performance. Inconsistent tactics and poor in-game management which have cost the team crucial matches; lack of investment in grassroots football that has limited the emergence of new talents to move the Eagles forward.

 

As Nigerians look ahead  to the other qualifying rounds of the 2026 World Cup, collective efforts are needed to ensure qualification and success. 

 

The NFF must prioritize accountability and transparency to build trust and foster progress. There is a need for long-term strategies for coaching, scouting, and development.

 

Companies should come out to sponsor the team and invest in football positively for a long term benefits of the country's youth. 

 

Adequate financial support from the government can ensure better preparation towards the qualifiers.

 

 The NFF should be supported to recruit experienced coaches with proven track records, that can qualify the Super Eagles for the remaining matches . 

 

Nigerians should continue to rally behind the Super Eagles, both at home and abroad.

 

The NFF needs all the support and encouragement devoid of any distractions at this point, and they should be allowed to concentrate on the task of qualifying the team for the mundial to be hosted by three countries. 

 

 Scouting talented players of Nigerian descent abroad should be intensified to strengthen the squad.

Advanced analytics can improve player performance and tactical planning. Social media and apps can engage fans and generate support for the team. Private organizations can play a significant role in funding, marketing, and promoting the Super Eagles at this critical stage of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

 

 

The Super Eagles have a rich history in the FIFA World Cup, marked by moments of brilliance and challenges. As Nigeria aims to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, collective efforts are needed from all stakeholders—players, coaches, administrators, and fans. By addressing systemic issues, investing in grassroots football, and fostering unity, Nigeria can ensure that the Super Eagles soar to greater heights at the World Cup come 2026. Time to support the NFF and Super Eagles is now. According to the late Sports Commentator Ernest Okonkwo, “when you cheer before a goal, you’re motivating an action, but when you cheer after a have been scored, you are responding to an impulse “.

 

(Patrick Ngwaogu is the Executive Director of www.exclusivenews.com.ng)