Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has enlisted the support of Nigerian football legends as he looks to motivate his players ahead of crucial 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
The Super Eagles have endured a poor start to their campaign, failing to secure a single win in their opening four matches. They were held to draws by Zimbabwe, Lesotho, and South Africa while suffering a damaging defeat against Benin Republic.
With just three points from a possible 12, Nigeria is currently fifth in Group C. They trail group leaders South Africa, Rwanda, and Benin by four points and sit one point behind Lesotho. Only the top team from each group secures an automatic ticket to the World Cup, leaving Nigeria with a mountain to climb.
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To boost morale, Chelle has reached out to some of Nigeria’s most celebrated football icons. Among those who have accepted his invitation are:
- Nwankwo Kanu – Former Arsenal and Inter Milan forward
- Austin Okocha – Ex-Bolton Wanderers captain
- Mikel Obi – Former Chelsea midfielder
- Vincent Enyeama – Legendary ex-Lille goalkeeper
“I have invited Nigerian legends to join us in this battle, and I’m happy they have accepted,” Chelle said, as quoted by Mainland Metro via The Guardian.
“I want to assure Nigerians that we are preparing well for these matches, and we will do whatever it takes to get back on track.”
The Super Eagles’ next two games could determine their World Cup fate. They will travel to Kigali to face Rwanda on March 21, followed by a home fixture against Zimbabwe in Uyo on March 25. Both matches are must-wins if Nigeria hopes to stay in contention.
Chelle, who replaced Augustine Eguavoen as head coach on January 8, faces immense pressure to deliver results. If Nigeria fails to win both matches, their World Cup dreams could be effectively over, shifting their focus to the 2030 tournament instead.
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Remaining Fixtures for Nigeria
March 21 away to Rwanda, March 25 home to Zimbabwe, August 2025 home to Rwanda, September 2025 away to South Africa, October 2025 away to Lesotho, November 2025 home to Benin.
Source: The Athletic NG
