Former President of the Nigerian Football Federation Amaju Pinnick is confident the Super Eagles will secure a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Soccernet.ng reports.
The three-time AFCON Champions have struggled in their qualification journey under three coaches – Jose Peseiro, Finidi George and Eric Sekhou Chelle.
Nigeria have played two games under these coaches, drawing two under Peseiro, while losing to Gernot Rohr‘s Benin Republic and securing a point against South Africa at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium under Finidi George.
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Eric Chelle rekindled hope for Nigerians when the Super Eagles secured a 3-0 win over Rwanda in March, but the flame was quickly extinguished when his side drew against Zimbabwe.
Pinnick backs Super Eagles to secure World Cup spot
Nigeria have secured seven points from six games and are 4th in Group D, with Benin Republic, Rwanda and South Africa slightly ahead.
Pinnick likened the current situation to the scenario the Super Eagles faced en route to the 2018 FIFA World Cup, but emerged victorious as they claimed a place in Russia.
“The truth is, never say never until the final whistle,” the 54-year-old said in quotes revealed by Brila.
“I know Nigeria’s mentality. In 2018, nobody gave us a chance. Cameroon were defending champions, Algeria were unbeaten in nearly 20 games, and Zambia were strong, but we qualified.
That’s why I still keep the faith with this team,” he concluded.
Despite Pinnick’s belief, Nigeria have very little ground to atone for their initial errors as a single draw or loss could mean they would miss two consecutive editions of the FIFA World Cup.
Nigeria continue their qualification journey next month. They’ll lock horns against Rwanda at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium on the 6th of September before travelling to play against South Africa three days later.