The Super Eagles of Nigeria are staring down a potential second consecutive World Cup miss as they prepare for a must-win 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Benin Republic on Tuesday at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo.
Head coach Eric Chelle and captain William Troost-Ekong have made it clear: there is no room for error.
Speaking at Monday’s pre-match press conference, Chelle underscored the gravity of the moment.
“We have to win. That’s the only goal,” he said with firm resolve. “We’re focused. We know what tomorrow means for us, for Nigeria. Yes, there may be nerves, but we are ready.”
Troost-Ekong echoed the urgency, saying the players are fully aware of the stakes and determined to seize the moment.
“Everyone in this squad wants to make history,” the defender said. “We know it’s not completely in our hands, but we will do everything to win and give ourselves a chance.”
The team’s preparations were disrupted over the weekend when their flight from Luanda suffered a cracked windscreen, forcing an emergency return and delaying their arrival in Uyo. Still, Chelle insisted that the players remain in high spirits and are not distracted.
A Narrow Path to Qualification
Nigeria currently sit third in Group C with 14 points—three behind Benin Republic and one behind second-placed South Africa.
To qualify for the 2026 World Cup:
Nigeria must beat Benin;
They must also hope South Africa fail to defeat Rwanda;
If South Africa win, Nigeria must win by a large goal margin to edge out on goal difference and claim the play-off spot.
Having missed out on the 2022 tournament in Qatar, Nigeria now risk failing to qualify for two consecutive World Cups for the first time since their debut in 1994.
This is more than a match—it’s a defining moment for Nigerian football.
