Former Barcelona winger Emmanuel Amuneke has warned the Super Eagles to be fully prepared for their upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifier against Rwanda, Footynaija.com reports.
The Olympic Gold medalist, who is currently Heartland FC technical adviser, admitted that Nigeria’s road to the 2026 FIFA World Cup will not be easy, warning that the players must give everything to turn things around.
Speaking ahead of the match, Amuneke said, “In their upcoming games, I hope they will be able to win. But we also have to be realistic—it’s a very difficult task because, in football, anything is possible.”
Nigeria will face Rwanda on March 21, 2025, at Amahoro Stadium in Kigali, before returning home to play Zimbabwe in Uyo on March 25.
The Super Eagles have had a poor start to the qualifiers, sitting fifth in Group C with just three points from four matches. Rwanda, on the other hand, is at the top of the group with seven points and will be aiming to extend their lead.
Head coach Eric Chelle is under pressure to get a win, and the team has already started preparations in Kigali.
As of early Monday morning, six players have already arrived at the Super Eagles’ training camp in Kigali, Rwanda, ahead of their crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe.
The early arrivals include Galatasaray forward Victor Osimhen, Olympiacos defender Bruno Onyemaechi, home-based midfielder Papa Mustapha, goalkeepers Kayode Bankole and Amas Obasogie, and Belgium-based striker Tolu Arokodare. The Galatasaray striker’s return is especially a huge boost, as he missed the previous four qualifiers due to injury.
Like Eric Chelle, Rwanda coach Adel Amrouche has also named a strong squad, mixing experienced players with fresh talents. Playing at home, the Amavubi will be confident of frustrating the Super Eagles.
Amuneke’s message is a wake-up call for the Super Eagles. They must not underestimate their opponents if they want to revive their World Cup hopes.