Former Super Eagles forward, Peter Osaze Odemwingie has urged Nigerians to remain optimistic about the team’s chances of qualifying for the World Cup.

Speaking on Brila FM’s “No-Holds-Barred” with Ifeanyi Udeze, the now professional golf player expressed confidence in the Super Eagles’ ability to overcome challenges.

Peter Odemwingie plays his tee shot on the par 4, fourth hole during the Clutch Pro Tour Major at Hollinwell Golf Club. (Photo by David Cannon/Getty Images)

“We have the players and materials needed. Personally, I didn’t enjoy watching our team play in the last Nations Cup because we didn’t perform like our usual selves.

“However, we need to play defensively against top teams like Germany, Argentina, and Brazil, but be more ambitious in the African Cup,” Odemwingie said.

“If we take that into consideration while playing our remaining games, and from our recent history, we can compete with any team on their home soil with a full stadium. We need to know in the back of our minds that we have to win these away games.

“Hopefully, there will be no drama in the team, and we pray for peace and harmony so we can get the job done for the collective good.”

Reflecting on past successes, Odemwingie recalled, “I remember being in Kenya to secure a World Cup ticket. We’ve won many away games against big teams. I also remember playing against Algeria, who were a very good side. We’ve pulled off a lot of magic.”

Odemwingie also called for the players to step up their game and perform to their full capabilities.

“Nigeria needs to know we are a big team in Africa. We shouldn’t play like smaller teams. We need to attack in numbers and trust our defenders and goalkeeper. We must be ourselves and recapture what’s missing in our football today,” he concluded.