Former Super Eagles midfielder Garba Lawal has urged the national team to persist in their efforts to qualify for the World Cup despite recent challenges.

In an interview on Brila FM’s Sunday Sports Show, Lawal expressed his views on the team’s 1-1 draw against South Africa and the road ahead.

Reflecting on the match, Lawal noted, “We started the game well in the first 10-15 minutes before South Africa scored. But we came out stronger in the second half.

“Unfortunately, Chukwueze’s shot hit the bar, and we were unlucky. South Africa played well too, but a 1-1 draw is not good enough for us.”

With the Super Eagles now sitting on three points, Lawal highlighted the importance of upcoming matches.

“Before this game, we were second to last with Zimbabwe on two points. Now, we have three points, but it’s still not good enough. We need to turn the table around by winning against Benin in Côte d’Ivoire,” he said.

When asked about Nigeria’s chances of qualifying, the former midfielder remained hopeful but cautious.

“It’s possible, but it’s not in our hands anymore. We can’t afford to drop any more points. We’ve already lost six points, so it’s going to be tough. We have to keep pushing, give more, and do extra. We just have to keep on winning.”