As Nigeria prepares for the crucial 2026 World Cup qualifiers, former FIFA and CAF technical director Chief Adeboye Onigbinde has expressed confidence in the Super Eagles’ ability to overcome Rwanda and Zimbabwe.
Nigeria faces a tough challenge in March, first taking on group leaders Rwanda, who currently sit three points ahead of the Super Eagles. With just two points from four matches, Nigeria is second from the bottom and needs a turnaround to keep their qualification hopes alive.
Following the clash against Rwanda, the Super Eagles will return home to face Zimbabwe at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo. Despite their current struggles, Onigbinde believes Nigeria has enough quality to dominate their opponents—if properly managed.
“If you look at the natural talents Nigeria possesses, there is no reason why we shouldn’t beat Rwanda,” Onigbinde told SoftFootball.com. “Not just Rwanda, but all the teams in our group. Nigeria has the materials to be one of the best in the world.”
However, he emphasized that talent alone isn’t enough, pointing to the need for better management and organization within the team.
“I want the best for the Super Eagles at this point. Both the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and qualifying for the 2026 World Cup should be our top priorities.”
With the World Cup dream hanging in the balance, the Super Eagles will need to prove their pedigree and turn their fortunes around in the upcoming fixtures.