The Super Eagles’ optimism of qualification for the 2026 World Cup has been significantly obscured due to a dramatic turn after a 1-1 draw with Zimbabwe. Taranda Chirewa’s 90th–minute goal silenced Uyo jubilant crowd, eliciting disgruntlement and anger.
The players’ failure to put on clinic in their performance from the onset in this international window with three points from a possible 12, places the team in a disadvantageous position. Impressive start and domination on the pitch could have averted uncertainty with regard to qualification.
They began positively with a 2-0 victory over Rwanda, offering a glimmer of hope. However, the draw against Zimbabwe represents a setback, leaving them six points adrift of the automatic qualification spot.
In spite of rising hurdles, a combination of ingredients such as hard work, grit, determination and team work can alter unfortunate fate of the Super Eagles and make its dream of participating in the World Cup crystallised into reality coupled with positive results elsewhere.
Nigeria has amassed seven points from six matches docking fourth in Group C while South Africa tops the group with 13 points. The result from the encounter with Zimbabwe narrowed their qualification chances.
To stockpile a total of 28 points, Nigeria has to emerge triumphantly from the outstanding encounters. This is necessary for the top spot or to end as one of the best runners-up. Reports indicate that South Africa may face a points deduction for fielding an ineligible player, Teboho Mokoena, who had accumulated two prior yellow cards. If enforced, this could reduce their lead and provide Nigeria with an opportunity to close the gap.
But even with point deduction, it does not guarantee automatic qualification of the Super Eagles. Unless Nigeria dismantles South Africa and ceases losing points needlessly.
Currently, Nigeria trails behind South Africa, Benin Republic, Rwanda, and potentially Lesotho, should they be awarded the three points from South Africa’s penalty. To secure qualification, the Super Eagles must win all their remaining matches. Victories against Rwanda, South Africa, Lesotho, and Benin Republic would guarantee that Nigeria finishes above at least three of these teams.
Only South Africa currently holds a lead of 3 or more points over Nigeria. A clean sweep in the remaining fixtures would ensure that Nigeria finishes in at least second place, regardless of how other results unfold.
If South Africa is docked three points and wins all their other matches except against Nigeria, the Super Eagles would top the group with a flawless run. However, if South Africa retains their current total and secures maximum points in every other game except the one against Nigeria, the Super Eagles would likely finish second and rely on being one of the best second-placed teams to qualify.
The CAF qualifying format for the 2026 World Cup features nine groups, with the winners of each group securing automatic qualification. The four best second-placed teams will proceed to a playoff to compete for a spot in the tournament.
As of now, the four teams holding the playoff positions are Gabon (15 points), Namibia (12 points), Mozambique (12 points), and Burkina Faso (11 points). Nigeria, currently on seven points, could still secure 12 more, potentially ending the group stage with 19 points. Depending on how results unfold in other groups, this could position the Super Eagles for a playoff spot.
In the final analysis, the stakes are high and the Super Eagles have to demolish all obstacles to enhance their qualification prospect. The uncertainty calls for decisive and frantic efforts, focus and ability to cash in on opponents’ poor judgement and miscalculations. These elements are essential in the remaining matches.
