Former Nigeria international Benedict Iroha insists the Super Eagles must maintain the form that inspired Tuesday’s 4-0 thrashing of Benin Republic to stand a chance of progressing from the CAF World Cup play-offs, Footynaija.com reports.
The Super Eagles found their best form at the perfect moment after their initial struggles had put them in a precarious position. Thanks to the margin of that win over Benin, they were just able to sneak their way into one of the play-offs via goal difference.
Nigeria now have to beat Gabon on November 13 in Morocco and then dispatch the winner between Cameroon and DR Congo to progress into the continental play-offs.
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Iroha, who earned 50 caps for Nigeria and played at two World Cup tournaments (1994 and 1998), believes the Super Eagles will have no qualms edging out their opponents if they can replicate their current form in Morocco.
What Benedict Iroha said
“I’ll say congratulations to Nigerians for the win and particularly to the team for fighting hard to win the game convincingly,” said Iroha in a recent interview with Complete Sports.
“That was a fantastic performance by the Super Eagles. The boys really came out for it as though their lives depended on it, and I’m happy they got the result.
“If they replicate this form and performance in the playoffs next month in Morocco, I’m sure the road will be clear for our World Cup qualification.
“You may say they left it late, but it’s better late than never. You appreciate success more when you work hard and earn it the tough way. We have a group of young and talented players who, I believe, are getting better with every game.
“The Morocco playoffs are around the corner. I can only advise that they keep working hard and build on this momentum to complete the job they’ve just started.”
If the Super Eagles progress from the CAF World Cup play-offs, they will then turn their focus to the inter-confederation play-offs where they will compete against teams from Asia, South America, Oceania, North and Central America by March 2026.
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