Nigerian football icon Jay Jay Okocha has made a bold and optimistic statement regarding the Super Eagles’ 2026 FIFA World Cup chances. Despite early struggles in the qualifiers, Okocha remains confident that Nigeria can still qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The former national team captain emphasized that the Super Eagles’ 2026 FIFA World Cup chances are very much alive, urging Nigerians to keep faith in the team’s resilience, determination, and recent improvement under coach Eric Chelle.
Okocha, known for his skill and leadership during his playing days, expressed unwavering belief that the Super Eagles’ 2026 FIFA World Cup chances are not over yet. Speaking passionately about Nigeria’s qualification hopes, he said that while the journey has been difficult, the team has what it takes to bounce back stronger. According to him, setbacks are part of football, but true champions rise through adversity.
The Super Eagles endured a challenging start to their qualifying campaign, recording three consecutive draws and a tough loss to Benin Republic. These results placed them in a precarious position, sitting second behind South Africa with 17 points. However, under the guidance of Eric Chelle, Nigeria began to rediscover its rhythm. A crucial late goal by Brentford midfielder Frank Onyeka revived hopes and secured the team a play-off spot, reigniting belief among fans that qualification is still within reach.
In his interview on The Exchange with Femi Soneye, Okocha acknowledged that the team’s slow start made the path to qualification more difficult. However, he insisted that the Super Eagles’ 2026 FIFA World Cup chances are still within their control. “Once there is a glimmer of hope, I will always believe,” Okocha stated. “Sometimes you have to do things the hard way. We put ourselves in this situation, and we are the only ones who can bring ourselves out of it.”
Okocha, who represented Nigeria in three FIFA World Cups, reminded fans that belief and unity are key ingredients for success. He urged Nigerians to rally behind the team, noting that pressure can bring out the best in players if properly managed. “The players know the expectations,” he said. “They understand how much qualifying means to the fans, and that motivation can push them to deliver when it matters most.”
Under Eric Chelle’s leadership, the Super Eagles have shown signs of revival. The team earned 14 points from their last six matches, demonstrating improved performance, stronger teamwork, and renewed confidence. Okocha praised their resilience, highlighting their recent displays against Benin Republic as evidence of a new fighting spirit.
Looking ahead, Nigeria faces a crucial challenge in the African play-offs for the 2026 World Cup. The Super Eagles will meet Gabon in the semi-final at the Complexe Sportif Prince Heritier Moulay Al Hassan in Rabat, Morocco. Victory in this match would set up a decisive final clash against either DR Congo or Cameroon. Success in both fixtures would earn Nigeria a spot in the intercontinental play-offs — and potentially, a ticket to the biggest stage in world football.
With Okocha’s confidence and the nation’s renewed faith, the Super Eagles’ 2026 FIFA World Cup chances remain a beacon of hope for millions of Nigerian fans eager to see their team soar again on the global stage.
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