Former Nigerian international and football icon, Segun Odegbami, has expressed strong optimism about the Super Eagles’ chances of qualifying for the 2026 Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) World Cup, following their impressive 4–0 victory over Benin Republic in Uyo on Tuesday.
Odegbami, who starred for the Green Eagles — the former name of Nigeria’s national football team — hailed the team’s overall display and spirit, emphasizing that the convincing performance has reignited the nation’s confidence in their ability to compete on the global stage.
Speaking after the game, Odegbami said, “We did very well. I am happy with the boys, and I think we deserved to win and we won very well and we now have an opportunity to qualify.”
He added that the team has the quality and determination needed to navigate the next stage of the qualification process successfully. “I think we have a very good chance to qualify from these play-offs to make it to the World Cup,” he said confidently.
Osimhen’s Brilliance Seals Play-Off Ticket
Nigeria’s qualification for the African play-offs was sealed through a standout performance led by Victor Osimhen, who netted a sensational hat-trick, while Frank Onyeka added a stoppage-time goal. The result propelled the three-time African champions into the play-offs as one of the four best second-placed teams, with 15 points and a +7 goal difference.
The emphatic win also marked a turnaround in what had been a challenging qualifying campaign for the Super Eagles, who were on the brink of missing two consecutive World Cup tournaments — a scenario last seen before their debut in 1994.
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Odegbami Backs the Team’s Focus and Determination
According to Odegbami, who played a pivotal role in Nigeria’s first Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) triumph in 1980 and represented the country at the 1976 Olympic Games, the current squad possesses the mentality, skill, and structure to advance through the play-offs.
He noted that with consistency, tactical discipline, and the right mental approach, the Super Eagles have every chance to secure their place in the expanded 48-team World Cup to be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
“This team has shown promise and maturity,” Odegbami emphasized. “If they maintain their current form and focus, I believe Nigeria will be among the countries flying the African flag at the 2026 World Cup.”
Awaiting Play-Off Draw
The Super Eagles will now wait for the official draw to determine their play-off opponents. The fixtures will be played over two legs, with the aggregate winner earning a ticket to the World Cup.
Football analysts believe that Nigeria’s experience and attacking depth, combined with players like Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, and Wilfred Ndidi, could give the team a competitive advantage in the decisive matches.
Rekindled Hope for Nigerian Fans
The victory over Benin Republic has reignited faith among fans who had grown concerned about the team’s inconsistency. The dominant performance has been described as a “statement of intent,” and many believe it signals the Super Eagles’ return to form at the right time.
Odegbami’s message of encouragement, coupled with the players’ renewed energy, has set the tone for what could be a defining moment in Nigeria’s football history.
Okay News reports that the Nigerian Football Federation is equally upbeat about the team’s resurgence, with plans to intensify preparations for the upcoming fixtures. Stakeholders have urged Nigerians to rally behind the team as they aim to reclaim their place on football’s grandest stage.
