Former Super Eagles captain, John Mikel Obi, has expressed optimism that Nigeria can still secure qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup despite their current standing in the qualifiers.
The Super Eagles sit third in Group C with 11 points from eight matches and are set to face Lesotho and Benin Republic in their final two games of the qualifying campaign.
Eric Chelle’s men will take on the Crocodiles of Lesotho at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium, Polokwane, on Friday, before hosting the Squirrels of Benin Republic next Tuesday.
Speaking on the ObiOne Podcast, Mikel said the players must take full responsibility and give their all for the country.
“It’s going to be a crime, an absolute crime, if Nigeria doesn’t make it to the World Cup again,” he said. “We love our football too much. Our World Cup fate is in the players’ hands. They have to win these two games—no excuses.”