Moses Simon has called on his Super Eagles teammates to show total commitment as Nigeria prepare for crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and South Africa.
The Eagles, who have endured a difficult qualifying campaign, sit in a precarious position with their hopes of reaching the global tournament in the United States, Canada, and Mexico hanging in the balance. Nigeria face Rwanda on Saturday at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo before traveling to Bloemfontein three days later to take on group leaders South Africa.
Nigeria’s qualification bid has been hampered by poor form, with only one win in their last six matches. However, there remains a glimmer of hope as reports suggest South Africa could face a points deduction for fielding an ineligible player against Lesotho in March.
For Simon, one of the senior figures in the squad, excuses are no longer acceptable. The 29-year-old stressed that every player must take responsibility if the team is to revive its campaign. “We just have to win, there are no excuses. It doesn’t matter who scores, we don’t care, we just want to win,” he said.
The Paris FC forward urged his teammates to be bold and united, insisting that goals must come from every department. “A defender can score, a midfielder can score, even a striker can score. We just need to do it collectively,” he added.
Simon acknowledged that inconsistency, frequent managerial changes, and the absence of key players have unsettled the squad, but he also praised new coach Eric Chelle for reigniting a fighting spirit reminiscent of past Super Eagles sides.
Despite the uphill task, Simon remains confident, noting that morale in camp is high. He cautioned against banking on possible administrative sanctions against South Africa, emphasizing that results on the pitch must decide Nigeria’s fate. “We have to get the job done because this is our opportunity and we can’t miss it,” he concluded.
Nigeria currently sit fourth in Group C with seven points, six behind South Africa on 13. Rwanda and Benin Republic are on eight points, Lesotho have six, while Zimbabwe are bottom with four.
The Super Eagles must win all remaining matches to keep their World Cup dreams alive.
