Okocha: Super Eagles Can Still Reach 2026 World Cup

Despite Nigeria’s underwhelming start to the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, former captain Augustine “Jay-Jay” Okocha believes qualification remains within reach. With just one win from six matches, the Super Eagles sit fourth in Group C, trailing leaders South Africa by six points. Yet Okocha remains optimistic.

“If I say we don’t have any chance, I will be telling lies,” Okocha . “We are not in the best position, but we still have a chance whether through playoffs or whatever means. One good thing about football is that there’s always hope.”

The Confederation of African Football’s revamped qualification format offers only group winners direct tickets to the World Cup, while the four best runners-up enter a playoff to compete for a single intercontinental playoff spot. This makes every remaining match a must-win for Nigeria.

Okocha is confident that coach Eric Chelle’s squad has the talent and determination to turn the tide. “If we want to give ourselves any chance of qualifying, we must focus on winning all our remaining games. I have faith in this team. They can do it,” he said.

With critical fixtures against South Africa and Rwanda looming, Okocha’s encouragement may serve as vital inspiration. “We know how important football is in Nigeria. It brings us together. I hope this team finds the strength to push through and qualify.”

His words now echo a national sentiment: the road may be rough, but the journey isn’t over.

Editorial

Hope is a fragile thing in football. It flickers in the face of defeats, dimmed by missed opportunities but somehow, it endures. Jay-Jay Okocha’s unwavering belief in the Super Eagles’ 2026 World Cup dream is a much-needed spark in what has so far been a dim campaign.

Let’s not sugar coat the reality. One win in six qualifiers is a crisis for a nation of our football pedigree. Sitting fourth in the group, with only group winners earning automatic tickets, is far from ideal. But Okocha reminds us that football rarely obeys logic it rewards belief, resilience, and late surges.

What’s needed now isn’t just tactical reorganisation it’s psychological regeneration. These players must stop playing with fear and start playing with purpose. They’re not just representing Nigeria; they’re carrying the hopes of millions who cling to football for pride, identity, and unity.

The path to qualification isn’t entirely closed. But it’s narrowing with every draw, every lapse in concentration, every squandered opportunity. Now is the time for leaders to step up — both on and off the pitch.

If we truly believe this team can make it, let’s prove it. With conviction. With planning. And with the fight of a nation that refuses to be counted out.

Did You Know?

1. Nigeria last failed to qualify for a FIFA World Cup in 2022 breaking a streak of three consecutive appearances (2010, 2014, 2018).
2. Jay-Jay Okocha captained Nigeria at the 2006 World Cup qualifiers but narrowly missed out on the tournament after Angola topped the group.
3. The 2026 FIFA World Cup will feature 48 teams, with Africa allocated 9 direct slots and 1 intercontinental playoff spot the highest ever for the continent.
4. The Super Eagles have qualified for the World Cup six times since their debut in 1994.
5. Nigeria’s last competitive win over South Africa came during the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations quarterfinal, with a 2–1 scoreline.