As the final whistle blew in Abidjan, signaling a painful 2-1 loss to Benin Republic, a wave of disbelief swept through Nigerian football fans. The Super Eagles, once a dominant force in African football, found themselves in an unfamiliar and uncomfortable position—fifth place in Group C of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
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With only three points from four matches, their road to North America suddenly seemed more treacherous than ever.
A Stumbling Start
The campaign began with a shocking 1-1 home draw against Lesotho, a match where Nigeria was expected to dominate. The disappointment was followed by another 1-1 draw against South Africa, a team the Super Eagles have historically had the upper hand over. But the real blow came in June 2024 when they faced Benin Republic, a team led by former Nigeria coach Gernot Rohr. The Cheetahs stunned the Eagles with a 2-1 victory, sending shockwaves across Nigerian football.
What Went Wrong?
Nigeria’s struggles in the qualifiers have been attributed to a combination of factors—poor team selection, tactical disorganization, and a lack of killer instinct in front of goal. Missing key players like Victor Osimhen in crucial games further weakened the squad, and the team’s defensive frailties were evident.
A Glimmer of Hope?
Despite their dismal start, Nigeria is not entirely out of the race. With six matches still to be played, the Super Eagles have a chance to turn things around. However, they must win almost all their remaining games, starting with their next fixture against Rwanda in March 2025.
The Road Ahead
The Super Eagles must now approach each game as a final, leaving no room for error. If they can rediscover their form, regain confidence, and secure crucial wins, qualification is still mathematically possible. But can they rise to the occasion, or will Nigeria face the unthinkable—missing the World Cup for the second consecutive time?
Only time will tell.
