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Former Nigerian international Sam Sodje has expressed concerns about the Super Eagles’ slim chances of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. According to him, Nigeria is closer to missing out on the tournament than pulling off a remarkable turnaround.
The Super Eagles currently sit fifth in Group C with just three points from four games. Only the group winners earn automatic qualification for the World Cup, leaving Nigeria in a precarious position.
To keep their hopes alive, the three-time African champions must win all six of their remaining games, a daunting task considering their recent struggles and inconsistency, despite a squad brimming with stars from top European clubs.
Nigeria’s challenges were highlighted in their last outing, a 2-1 loss at home in the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
This defeat has raised concerns about the team’s readiness as they will also face Rwanda in a two-legged World Cup qualifying fixture.
Speaking with Brila.net, Sodje, a former Brentford defender, admitted he isn’t a coach and avoided technical analysis but emphasized the need for a mental and attitudinal overhaul among the players.
Sodje’s Take on the Super Eagles
“In qualifying for the World Cup, we’ve put ourselves in a very tough situation, and I don’t see these players going six games in a row, home and away, winning all games; unless we do things properly,” Sodje said.
“Football is a funny game; you may never know, but honestly, the character of these boys, the attitude, and the manner they lost the game [against Rwanda] is what we should worry about.”
“Something has to change. Mentally, attitude, and discipline have to change if we want to have any chance of going to the World Cup,” he added.
The World Cup qualifiers will resume in March 2025, giving Nigeria time to regroup. The hope is to have all key players fit, in top form, and prepared to deliver six consecutive victories to keep their qualification dream alive.
