Former Kwara United coach Samson Unuanel has warned that the country could still turn around its 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign despite playing a 1-1 draw against Zimbabwe.
Victor Osimhen had opened the scoring before Tawanda Chirewa grabbed a late equalizer for the visitors.
After six rounds of the 10-match group campaign Nigeria have slipped to six points behind leaders South Africa, who secured a 2-0 away win against Benin through efforts from Burnley striker Lyle Foster and Jayden Adams.
In a chat with Completesports.com, Unuanel reminded fans that the Super ‘Eagles have previously overcome difficult situations, notably qualifying for the 2010 World Cup from a seemingly impossible position.
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“I am not losing hope yet on the Super ‘Eagles because we have been in this position in the past and still qualify for the tournament.
“Yes, many Nigerians will find it difficult to believe but nothing has been won until after the final games are played. Writing off ‘Eagles now won’t be ideal because there is still a chance for them to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.
” For all who cares to hear, the 1-1 draw against Zimbabwe should not be seen as anything, all I know is that Nigeria will qualify.”
1 Comment
As painful as it is if we fail to qualify, let us not make showing up at the WC a do-or-die affair or put undue stress on our players and coaches. Yes, we would love to see Osimhen or Lookman or other players smash in goals at the next competition, but other opportunities will still come.
Missing two competitions in a row hurts, but it is the result of our wrong decisions and poor planning. Was it right to discard Rohr, the qualification king? Was the choice for his replacements right? Who says playing at the WC consistently does not improve the skills of our players or soccer in general? Unfortunately, we can’t even qualify now.
Let us go back to the drawing board, allow Eric Chelle to work with the current crop of players. We will see better days in future. Patience.