Former Nigerian international players have stepped forward to support the Super Eagles as they get ready for 2026 World Cup qualifying matches against Rwanda and South Africa, though there’s been more criticism about the team’s poor start to the campaign.
Emmanuel Amuneke, who won African Player of the Year in 1994, spoke to reporters on Monday, September 1st, saying the results against Rwanda and South Africa are very important for the team’s World Cup hopes.
He said, “The main goal is to get good results against Rwanda and South Africa. I hope they can win these games; we are not at the top yet, but we have the ability to do well.”
He added, “The players need to understand how important these matches are. If they win and other results go well in the group, we will know where we stand.”
Etim Esin, a former Nigerian playmaker, emphasised the need to win all points from both matches, warning that not qualifying would be a big problem, especially with the talent the team has.
He said, “We must get all six points from Rwanda and South Africa.”
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He continued, “We can’t have two top African players like Lookman and Osimhen and not make it to the World Cup. This is their moment to come together and ensure we qualify.
Missing two World Cups in a row would be a big blow. Wish them the best. All we need are good results, and it’s possible if these players work as a team.”
Azubuike Egwuekwe, who was part of the 2013 AFCON-winning team, believes the current squad can win the needed matches.
He said, “The final team is set; it’s still the same group we know. With their skills, we can win both matches if they play their best.”
Coach Eric Chelle has already said he wants to shut up the doubters, telling Nigerian journalist Osasu Obayiuwana based in the UK, “People have already written us off. But I don’t care. I believe we can surprise a lot of people.”
The Eagles will play Rwanda in Uyo on September 6th before travelling to Bloemfontein.
