Former Super Eagles defender, Godwin Okpara has issued a stark warning to the team ahead of their 2026 FIFA World Cup playoffs in November.
Okpara expressed deep concerns about the playoff format, which pits teams in single elimination games for a spot on the global stage.
“I don’t know how we’re going to qualify with this playoff thing. It’s not going to be easy,” Okpara said.
The playoffs represents Nigeria’s last shot at redemption after their heartbreaking absence from the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.
Nigeria faltered in their group-stage campaign this time around, finishing behind South Africa and leaving fans to rue what could have been.
With the expanded slots offering hope—Africa earning nine direct berths plus a playoff opportunity—the pressure is immense.
Okpara wary of Cameroon
“When you look at the playoffs, you look at the likes of Cameroon. And I hope that we won’t meet Cameroon.
“Whenever we meet Cameroon, it’s something else. It’s something else,” he emphasized.
Despite his pessimism, Okpara’s message carried an undercurrent of urgency and resolve. He urged the current crop of players to rise to the occasion.
Also read: Okpala and Udi Call for World Cup Mindset Shift
“So it’s going to be tough. It’s a World Cup we’re not supposed to miss.
“We missed the last World Cup, and seeing us now, missing this one would be something else. We must be in this World Cup.”
“I don’t know how they’re going to do it, how it’s going to tick, but whatever way we can qualify, we must do it. Our players must come all out,” he added.
They face off against the Panthers of Gabon in a single-leg semifinal tie on Thursday, November 13.
