Nigerian midfielder Wilfred Ndidi has expressed confidence that Nigeria can still qualify for the 2026 World Cup, despite the team’s challenging position in the qualifiers.

Speaking on an X Space (formerly Twitter) alongside fellow Nigerian international Kenneth Omeruo, Ndidi emphasized that with the new coach, the right mindset, and the necessary quality within the squad, the Super Eagles can turn things around.

However, he stressed that it would require everyone involved to do their part to make qualification possible.

“Kudos to coach Augustine Eguavoen; he actually helped the team very well, he is a good manager, and a unique manager.

When a new coach comes in, there is this fight in the team to want to secure their place in the team and that is a good motivation because we know these games are crucial.

Everyone wants to be the main man in the team,” Ndidi said.

He also acknowledged the team’s shortcomings in previous matches but highlighted the renewed confidence that comes with the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers and the push for World Cup qualification.

“We put ourselves in this situation, and while we didn’t do well in the past games, the AFCON qualifiers have helped build confidence within the team. We can’t afford to let this opportunity slip, because if some players miss out now, there’s no guarantee to actually go for the next one,” Ndidi stated.

The Super Eagles are aware of the high stakes. “It’s already in our heads that if we don’t get this right, we might have to start from scratch for the next one. We all want to play in the World Cup. There’s no excuse going forward.”

As of now, the Super Eagles have yet to register a win in the qualifiers, sitting fifth in Group C with just three points from four matches.

The World Cup qualifiers resume in March, and under the new manager, the three-time African champions will look to reassert themselves and make a strong push for qualification.