Author: Aishat Akanni

Failure to qualify for the 2026 World Cup would be a huge blow for the team, especially after missing out on the 2022 edition.

The Super Eagles have struggled in their previous matches, recording three draws and one loss in their first four games.

Historically, Nigeria has struggled to secure an away victory against Rwanda, but Ekong insists the team is not concerned about past records.

Nigeria’s new head coach, Eric Chelle, will be under pressure to deliver, as the Super Eagles look to bounce back from their slow start.

Nigeria will take on Rwanda on Friday in Kigali before facing Zimbabwe in Uyo on March 25.

With their World Cup hopes hanging in the balance, the Super Eagles will need to win all remaining matches and turn their fortunes around in the upcoming qualifiers.

Nigeria, currently fifth in the standings, will be looking to kickstart their qualification campaign with a strong performance in Kigali.

The 24-year-old striker has been in fine form this campaign, scoring 19 goals and providing six assist. in 35 appearances across all competitions.

According to The Herald, head coach Michael Nees has replaced the influential midfielder with Richard Hachiro, a local-based player who plies his trade in Zimbabwe’s top flight.

Ogbu’s coach at Slavia Prague, Jindřich Trpišovský, believes the Nigerian defender is vastly underrated in the market.