Ivorian legend and former Chelsea striker, Didier Drogba, has emphasized that Nigeria’s qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup is vital for African football.
Speaking in an interview with Sporty TV, Drogba described the Super Eagles as one of the continent’s most influential teams, whose presence on the global stage “means a lot” for Africa’s football image and pride.
Nigeria narrowly missed automatic qualification from Group C, finishing second with 17 points — just one behind South Africa, who secured the group’s direct ticket after a 3-0 win over Rwanda in their final fixture at Mbombela Stadium.
However, the Super Eagles reignited their World Cup hopes with a commanding 4-0 victory over Benin Republic in Uyo last Tuesday. They will now face Gabon in the semi-finals of the African playoffs on November 13, with the winner to meet either Cameroon or DR Congo for the continent’s intercontinental playoff slot in Mexico, March 2026.
‘Nigeria’s Presence Elevates African Football’
Drogba urged Nigerian fans to remain patient and continue supporting the team, stressing that their involvement in the World Cup enhances Africa’s visibility and competitiveness on the global stage.
“It would be nice if they qualify because to have Nigeria in a World Cup is very important for Africa,” Drogba said. “But if they don’t qualify, whoever represents Africa, we will still be proud to support.”
He praised Nigeria’s football heritage, describing it as central to the continent’s identity. “Nigeria has always brought excitement, talent, and energy to world football. Their participation inspires young African players everywhere,” he added.
‘Criticism Comes with High Expectations’
Addressing criticism directed at the Super Eagles after their AFCON 2023 final loss to Ivory Coast, Drogba defended the team’s performance.
“You know, if Nigeria had won the African Cup of Nations, you wouldn’t even be saying that. But that’s football — losing the final doesn’t mean your team is not good,” he said. “They reached the final, they fought hard, and fans supported them all through. But the moment they lose, people turn on them — it happens everywhere in Africa.”
Drawing a comparison with club football, Drogba remarked, “Finishing second is like Chelsea finishing second in the Premier League — people act like it doesn’t count.”
‘This Nigerian Team Deserves Respect’
The two-time African Footballer of the Year expressed admiration for Nigeria’s current generation of players, particularly Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman.
“That’s the level of expectation because you’ve won before,” he said. “You have Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman — both among Africa’s best. This team can perform; they just need consistency and confidence.”
Drogba concluded by emphasizing that Africa’s strongest teams, including Nigeria, must feature on football’s biggest stage: “For Africa to grow, we need our best — Nigeria, Senegal, Morocco, Ivory Coast — all competing together at the World Cup.”
