Super Eagles and Rangers defender Leon Aderemi Balogun has expressed confidence in Nigeria’s chances of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, despite the team’s precarious position in Group C.

The Super Eagles currently sit 5th in their group with just three points from four games, making the remaining six fixtures crucial.

To stand a chance of qualifying, Nigeria must win all six matches, a daunting but achievable task if approached with the right mindset and preparation.

Speaking on the team’s chances, Balogun emphasized the importance of preparation and structure, noting that all stakeholders must understand the gravity of the situation and act accordingly.

The 2019 AFCON bronze medalist, who has not represented Nigeria since 2022, earned his 46th cap as a late substitute in Nigeria’s record-breaking 10-0 victory over São Tomé and Príncipe in an AFCON qualifier.

Balogun is hopeful of making a return to the squad for the AFCON qualifiers in March and believes the team can turn things around if properly managed.

“We have to win all six games, and that should seal the deal, but obviously it’s not easy because no game should be underestimated,” Balogun said in an interview with Brila.net.

The need for a clear strategy

He also stressed the importance of having a clear strategy moving forward:

“It’s very important that everybody involved knows as quickly as possible what the setup is going to be like. With structure in place, knowing this is the way we are going forward then we can work with that.”

Balogun acknowledged the pressure on the team, both internally and externally, but highlighted the need for confidence and resilience.

“It’s a very difficult situation, and it can become dangerous with the expectations not just from the outside but also within the team.

Nigeria in African football is supposed to be at the top with maybe alongside two or three other nations.”

Yes, Benin, they are a good team. They are well-coached. Rwanda, they are strong squad, a really strong unit. They fight for their lives, but we are the Nigerian Super Eagles, we have the better players.

If we now have to look over our shoulders because we are concerned about getting the right result against these teams, then that tells you there is a lot of work to do and it is important not just to come back but to work our way back.”

Balogun urged the team to adopt a winning mindset in the remaining qualifiers

“I think it’s very important for us to get back to that level where we know whichever game we go into, we can win and we will win.

That must be the mindset. I think we need to go and put the shirt on with that mentality.
This is what playing for the Nigerian national team is about.”