Former Nigerian professional footballer Seyi Olofinjana believes that the Super Eagles should not even be thinking about World Cup qualification, following their disappointing performances in the qualifiers thus far, Footynaija.com reports.
The Super Eagles find themselves far behind in the race to secure group C’s ticket to the 2026 FIFA World Cup which will take place in the United States, Mexico and Canada.
Currently trailing group leaders South Africa by six points, fourth placed Nigeria have only four games to try and turn their fortunes around with must-win games against Rwanda, South Africa, Benin and Lesotho up ahead.
With serious doubts hanging over Nigeria’s chances of qualifying, Olofinjana, who spent eight years in the national team setup (2002-2010), has urged the Super Eagles to step up their game and earn their spot at the Mundial.
“With the remaining fixtures, it’s still mathematically possible to qualify. However, we have to earn that right,” he told Brila. “Honestly, with the way things stand, Nigeria shouldn’t be thinking about the World Cup.
“Even if we qualify now, we’ll start preparing again and end up crashing out in the group stage or the second round. There has to be real passion and purpose behind our football.”
Olofinjana’s call for the Super Eagles to step up their game is understandable. Despite boasting one of the most talented squads on the continent Nigeria has struggled. It certainly is time for the players to step up and prove that they deserve to wear the national team colours.
