Former Super Eagles forward, Victor Ikpeba, has called on Nigeria’s senior men’s national team to seize their second chance at qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, describing the upcoming playoffs as “a lifeline that must not be wasted.”

The Super Eagles failed to secure automatic qualification despite a dominant 4–0 victory over Benin Republic in Uyo last week, finishing second in Group C behind South Africa’s Bafana Bafana.

As a result, Nigeria will now compete in the playoffs scheduled to take place in Morocco next month, beginning with a semi-final tie against Gabon’s Panthers. The winner of that match will go on to face either Cameroon or the Democratic Republic of Congo for one of Africa’s final World Cup spots.

Speaking on Monday Night Football on SuperSport TV, Ikpeba — a member of Nigeria’s 1994 AFCON-winning squad and a key figure at the 1998 World Cup — urged the team to remain focused, united, and hungry for success.

“We can qualify for the World Cup. This is another chance for them to make it,” Ikpeba said.
“They have a second lifeline, and they must grab it with both hands.”

The former Monaco striker cautioned that the playoffs will be highly competitive but maintained that Nigeria has the talent and experience needed to triumph if they maintain discipline and composure.

Naija News reports that the Super Eagles have faced criticism in recent months for inconsistent performances during the qualifiers. Costly draws and missed opportunities earlier in the campaign ultimately denied them the top spot in their group.

However, their emphatic victory over Benin Republic has reignited optimism among fans, and Ikpeba believes the team can build on that momentum to avoid another World Cup heartbreak — especially after missing out on Qatar 2022.

“They know what is at stake,” Ikpeba added. “This team has enough quality to get the job done if they stay focused and play with purpose.”