Former Super Eagles captain, John Mikel Obi, has issued a rallying call to Nigeria’s national team, urging them to rise to the occasion and secure qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
With just two crucial matches left, Nigeria sits third in Group C, trailing South Africa and the Benin Republic by three points. The Eagles will first face Lesotho in Polokwane on Friday before wrapping up their campaign against Benin in Uyo next week.
Speaking on his ObiOne Podcast, the former Chelsea midfielder didn’t hold back:
“It’s going to be a crime—an absolute crime—if Nigeria doesn’t make it to the World Cup again. We love our football too much. Our World Cup fate is in the players’ hands. They have to win these two games, no excuses.”
Mikel, who led Nigeria at the 2018 World Cup in Russia, admitted that the current qualifying campaign has left the nation anxious. However, he stressed that leadership, unity, and accountability among the players could still turn things around.
“At this stage, every off-field problem goes out the window. It’s about the players now. They must take responsibility and deliver. Nigerians are counting on them,” he said.
Acknowledging the ongoing challenges within the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Mikel urged the squad to remain focused:
“Yes, there are problems in the NFF—everyone knows that—but right now, that doesn’t matter. Win your two games first. The rest we can discuss later.”
The 37-year-old, widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s football legends, also called on senior figures in the squad, including Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, Alex Iwobi, Moses Simon, and Victor Boniface, to lead by example.
“When I captained the team, responsibility came first. You put your frustrations aside. The players need to meet, talk, and pull together. They still have a chance—and the quality to do it,” he added.
Despite Nigeria’s inconsistent run, with five draws in eight qualifiers, Mikel remains confident in the team’s strength.
“We have great players in every department. The defence is solid, the midfield is balanced, and our attackers are among the best in Africa. What we need now is mentality, hunger, and focus,” he emphasized.
The Super Eagles opened camp in Polokwane on Monday, preparing for their clash with Lesotho at the Peter Mokaba Stadium. A victory there, followed by another win in Uyo, could secure Nigeria’s return to football’s biggest stage—depending on other Group C results.
