Former Super Eagles captain John Obi Mikel has issued a rallying cry to the Nigerian national team, insisting they can and must still qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup despite their shaky start.
Speaking on his ObiOne Podcast, the former Chelsea midfielder described Nigeria’s qualification campaign as “hanging by a thread” but stressed that the outcome remains in the players’ hands.
Mikel’s message to the current Super Eagles squad was clear and direct: no excuses just results.
“It’s going to be a crime, an absolute crime, if Nigeria doesn’t make it to the World Cup again,” Mikel stated.
“Our World Cup fate is in the players’ hands. They have to win these two games no excuses.”
The Super Eagles currently sit third in Group C, trailing South Africa and Benin Republic by three points. With only two crucial fixtures remaining, Mikel is urging the players to give their all to secure a maximum of six points.
The former captain, who led Nigeria at the 2018 FIFA World Cup, called on key players such as Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, and Alex Iwobi to take full responsibility and block out distractions—including the ongoing administrative issues within the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).
“At this stage, every off-field problem goes out the window. It’s about the players now. They must take responsibility and deliver. Nigerians are counting on them,” he said.
Mikel further advised the team to emulate the unity and focus that defined previous successful Super Eagles squads, urging them to hold an internal meeting to “pull together.”
To avoid missing out on a second consecutive World Cup, the Super Eagles must win their final two qualifying matches:
- Against Lesotho in Polokwane this Friday
- At home against Benin Republic in Uyo in their final qualifier
Despite the inconsistent run five draws in eight matches Mikel remains confident in the team’s potential.
“We have great players in every department. We just need the mentality, the hunger, and the focus to get it done,” he concluded.
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