The Super Eagles’ 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification campaign has been anything but smooth with a much-needed 2-0 victory over Rwanda followed by a frustrating 1-1 draw with bottom-placed Zimbabwe, Footynaija.com reports.
After six rounds of matches played in Group C, they sit in fourth place with seven points, trailing leaders South Africa (13 points), Rwanda (8 points) and Benin (8 points). Lesotho (6 points) and Zimbabwe (4 points) complete the group standings.
With only the group winners guaranteed a spot at the World Cup, Nigeria’s chances now depend on a strong finish in their remaining four fixtures. But is qualification still within reach?
The Super Eagles’ struggles so far
Nigeria’s campaign has been underwhelming, with just one win from six matches. Their struggles began with a 1-1 home draw against Lesotho, followed by another 1-1 draw against Zimbabwe.
The Super Eagles managed to hold South Africa to a 1-1 draw but suffered a shocking 2-1 defeat against Benin. Eric Chelle’s appointment followed by a victory over Rwanda offered a glimmer of hope, only for another frustrating draw against Zimbabwe to raise fresh doubts.
The Super Eagles’ main issue in this qualification campaign has been their inability to turn dominant performances into victories. Poor finishing, lapses in concentration and tactical inconsistency have cost them valuable points so far.
The road ahead: Four must-win games
Nigeria has four remaining games against Rwanda (home), South Africa (away), Lesotho (away) and Benin (home). Given their current position, they will likely need to win all four to stand a realistic chance of finishing top of the group.
Victory against Rwanda is non-negotiable. The Super Eagles must capitalize on home advantage and ensure they secure maximum points against the Amavubi who sit just one point ahead.
On paper, South Africa are Nigeria’s toughest opponents in group C. However, if the Super Eagles can go into this game with a winning momentum, this clash could prove vital in shaping the final group standings.
Against Lesotho and Benin, Chelle’s men must show their superiority especially against the latter who secured a surprise victory over the Super Eagles in their last meeting. These matches could be decisive in Nigeria’s qualification hopes.
A potential lifeline for Nigeria?
South Africa risks a three-point deduction for fielding an ineligible Player in their game against Lesotho.
Teboho Mokoena had two yellow cards in two games against Benin and Zimbabwe.
South Africa are currently at the top of Group C in the FIFA World Cup African Qualifiers. pic.twitter.com/HQ1A9d4SP9
— Africa Facts Zone (@AfricaFactsZone) March 25, 2025
One potential lifeline for the Super Eagles is the eligibility controversy surrounding South Africa’s Teboho Mokoena.
Reports suggest that Bafana Bafana may be docked three points for fielding Mokoena in their 2-0 win over Lesotho despite the midfielder having accumulated two yellow cards in previous matches.
If the Confederation of African Football confirms the penalty, South Africa would drop to 10 points, reducing Nigeria’s deficit to just three points.
This would make the Super Eagles’ remaining fixtures even more crucial, as closing out the qualifying campaign with four wins could see them leapfrog Bafana Bafana by the final matchday.
Can Nigeria still qualify?
While the odds are against the Super Eagles, qualification is still mathematically possible. However, it will require winning all four remaining matches to reach 19 points. They will also have to hope South Africa, Rwanda and Benin drop points, especially if Bafana Bafana is docked three points.
Improved performances in front of goal is desperately needed as wastefulness has cost Nigeria dearly so far. With quality attacking players like Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, Alex Iwobi and Moses Simon, Nigeria certainly has the talent to turn things around. But they must start delivering results immediately.
At this point, the Super Eagles’ fate is no longer entirely in their hands. However, if they respond with the urgency and fight needed, their dream of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup is still alive, even if just barely.