Augustine Eguavoen has admitted that Nigeria’s path to the 2026 FIFA World Cup remains difficult, but not impossible, as he offered an honest assessment of the Super Eagles’ qualification hopes, Footynaija.com reports.
The 59-year-old, who serves as the Nigeria Football Federation’s Technical Director, spoke during the Troost-Ekong Foundation Charity Match held at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Lagos.
Speaking on the Super Eagles’ current situation in the qualifiers, Eguavoen said the team has what it takes, even though the journey won’t be easy.
“It’s easier said than done, but we have the potential and the personnel,” he said in quotes reported by ACLSports.
“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.”
Eguavoen emphasised that the current group of players are motivated to deliver.
“With the boys we have now and every Nigerian coming together, it is doable,” he added.
“I’m 100 percent sure because the players want to be at the World Cup. 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.”
The former head coach, who previously guided Nigeria to the 2025 AFCON ticket during his short spell, also threw his full support behind current head coach Eric Chelle, who has now gone seven matches unbeaten since taking charge.
“Very good performance,” he said.
“I hope the record continues. There shouldn’t be any distractions, let him be, let him do what he feels is right, and give him control. This is not a one-man show. Collectively, we can achieve success.”
Nigeria are currently sitting in fourth position in their World Cup qualifying group, trailing behind Benin Republic, South Africa, and Rwanda. The next round of matches could decide their fate, with just four games left to play.