Super Eagles Can Still Qualify for World Cup – Victor Ikpeba

From Paul Orude Bauchi 

Former Super Eagles striker, Victor Ikpeba, has expressed optimism that Nigeria can still qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup despite missing out on an automatic spot.

Nigeria finished second in their qualifying group with 17 points, just one point behind South Africa, who topped the table with 18 points after pounding Benin 4-0 in their last group march.

The Super Eagles will now face Gabon, Cameroon, and Burkina Faso in the playoffs scheduled for November in Morocco after emerging one of the best in second position on 7 points goal aggregate.

Ikpeba, while congratulating South Africa on their qualification, admitted Nigeria’s slow start affected their campaign. He, however, praised the team’s recent improvement under the current coach.

“Our slow start was our biggest undoing, but the team has shown progress. The manager has done well in a short time, and with consistency and focus, we can still make it,” Ikpeba said.

He acknowledged injuries to key players like Victor Osimhen but expressed confidence in the squad’s depth. “Even if Osimhen is injured, the players must step up. The talent is there; we just need consistency,” he added.

Ikpeba also lauded Chukwueze’s performance and Tobi’ s late goal against Benin, describing it as “technically brilliant.”

He concluded by urging the Super Eagles to remain focused and deliver when it matters most in the playoffs.