By Kenneth Ogbuehi, EKAO Player Management
As the Super Eagles arrive in camp ahead of their crucial World Cup qualifiers against Lesotho and Benin, Nigeria’s campaign stands at a critical point. This is a moment that demands full focus, strong leadership, and perhaps a bit of luck.
What should have been a normal international window has already been disrupted by issues off the pitch. Reports confirm that several players invited by coach Eric Chelle are still dealing with visa delays to South Africa, where Lesotho will host their match. It is an unnecessary distraction at a time when every minute of preparation matters. It is difficult to plan a perfect performance when some of your players are still waiting to travel.
To his credit, Eric Chelle has tried to bring fresh energy to the team. His 23-man squad for these important games includes key players such as William Troost Ekong, Wilfred Ndidi, Alex Iwobi, and Victor Osimhen. In attack, there are many options. Ademola Lookman, Samuel Chukwueze, Moses Simon, Cyriel Dessers, Terem Moffi, Akor Adams, and Olakunle Olusegun all bring something unique to the team.
However, some of Chelle’s earlier decisions have raised questions. Players like Victor Boniface, Joe Aribo, and Jordan Torunarigha were left out. In a qualification race this close, teamwork and trust are just as important as individual form. Nigeria’s problem is not talent. It is consistency and chemistry.
Nigeria are currently third in Group C with 11 points. Benin have 14 points and South Africa have 12. Only the group winner will qualify automatically for the 2026 World Cup. On paper, Nigeria can still make it. Two wins, first against Lesotho and then at home against Benin, could lift the team to 17 points and possibly first place. But that will depend on South Africa or Benin dropping points. Football can be cruel to teams that rely on others to fail.
To qualify directly, Nigeria must win both games and hope South Africa do not collect maximum points. Every goal scored will also matter because goal difference may decide the group.
South Africa’s next opponent, Zimbabwe, is facing its own problems. Their assistant coach, Takesure Chiragwi, recently stepped down after he was seen on television slapping a player during a league match. The incident forced the Zimbabwe Football Association to act, and the team will now face South Africa without a full coaching staff. That could make South Africa’s job easier, and it is one more reason why Nigeria must take full responsibility for their own results.
From my experience managing players around the world, I know that small details often decide success. Nigeria’s talent is not the issue. The problem is often organization and mental preparation. Stories about visa delays in 2025 show that our football management still reacts to problems instead of preventing them. That must change if Nigeria wants to remain a serious football nation.
The Super Eagles still have a chance to reach the 2026 World Cup. But they need full concentration, teamwork, and belief. If Victor Osimhen returns to his best, if Ademola Lookman stays sharp, and if Wilfred Ndidi controls the midfield, Nigeria can still succeed. The dream is alive, but only just.
It is now up to Eric Chelle and his players to prove that the wings of the eagle are still strong enough to rise again.
Kenneth Ogbuehi
CEO, EKAO Player Management
Football analyst and talent development consultant
