Former Super Eagles goalkeeper Idah Peterside has pinpointed the two matches he believes denied Nigeria an automatic qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Nigeria finished second in Group C, behind South Africa, who clinched the automatic ticket to next year’s tournament. The result means the Super Eagles will now compete in the playoffs against Gabon in November for a chance to qualify.
Speaking on Soccer Beat, Peterside lamented Nigeria’s early performances in the qualifying series, particularly against lower-ranked teams.
“Benin were topping the group and we beat them soundly,” he said. “Imagine if Nigeria had taken this form against Benin earlier in the qualifiers.
“Two games cost Nigeria automatic qualification — Zimbabwe and Lesotho. We played draws with both teams. You can’t draw with Lesotho and Zimbabwe in Uyo, Nigeria,” he added.