According to BSNSports.com.ng, former Super Eagles and Benin Republic coach Gernot Rohr and head coach of Rwanda, Spittler, voiced hope that Nigeria can still make it to the FIFA World Cup in 2026.
The Super Eagles’ chances of making it to the World Cup are dwindling as they are placed in a group with South Africa, Zimbabwe, Lesotho, Benin Republic, Rwanda, and the 2023 AFCON silver medalists.
With three points from four games, the 2013 AFCON winners are far behind in fifth place, with seven points apiece going to Rwanda, South Africa, and Benin Republic in first, second, and third place, respectively.
In a Punch interview, Gernot Rohr emphasized that the Super Eagles may still win the group.
“We have to be realistic, South Africa is number one,” he stated. If all the players are highly motivated and come together in a nice mood, Nigeria can still be ranked number two.
“They should defeat all of these teams; they must defeat Lesotho. They can defeat Rwanda and Zimbabwe. They can also defeat Benin at home, but I believe we can defeat Nigeria once more.
“So, they will receive 12 points if they win these four games. And I believe they can still succeed if they defeat South Africa. However, it will not be simple for them to defeat South Africa in South Africa. Because the team is now cohesive and there is confidence, I believe Benin has a small chance as well.
Thus, I believe that the players, along with the staff and federation, will spare no effort to attend the World Cup. However, they now have to be pragmatic and state that there are just three points in four games.”
Similarly, Rwanda’s coach Spittler stated, “There is still a long way to go, Nigeria can still has the chance to qualify,” in an interview with Brila. Even if it’s challenging, they can succeed given the players on the squad. Although it won’t be simple, winning the remaining games is still possible.
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