Former Super Eagles captain John Obi Mikel has expressed confidence that Nigeria’s national team can still clinch a spot at the the 2026 FIFA World Cup. According to Daily Post, he insists that their qualifying bid is not yet lost. Currently, the Super Eagles are placed third in Group C, having gathered 11 points from eight matches in the qualification campaign. The Current Qualification Landscape In Group C, Nigeria competes alongside South Africa, Benin, Rwanda, Lesotho, and Zimbabwe.At present, South Africa leads the group standings, while Nigeria, Benin, and Rwanda are closely bunched in the middle of the table. The group winner will secure direct qualification to the World Cup finals, while the best runners-up across groups may have opportunity via a playoff route. Mikel’s Argument: Hope Is Still Alive Mikel argues that Nigeria’s campaign is far from over. He suggests that with the right mindset, strong performances in the remaining fixtures, and perhaps favorable results elsewhere, the Super Eagles can still overturn the current deficit. He emphasizes that the team should remain focused, believe in their potential, and treat each remaining qualifier as a final. In his view, the combination of talent and resolve within the squad gives them a fighting chance. Challenges and Key Matches Ahead Despite Mikel’s optimism, Nigeria faces several obstacles: One recent example of a missed opportunity came in their 1–1 draw with Zimbabwe, in which Victor Osimhen scored first but Nigeria conceded a late equalizer. What Nigeria Must Do to Succeed To keep the qualification dream alive, the Super Eagles must: If they achieve this, Nigeria can still turn their campaign around and push for a place in the 2026 World Cup finals.
