Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye believes Nigeria has what it takes to secure a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Speaking to Brila FM, the Udinese shot stopper said the team’s spirits are high as they prepare to resume qualifiers in September.
Nigeria currently sit fourth in Group C, six points adrift of leaders South Africa, with four matches left to play. Okoye emphasised the importance of fan support. “We are in very good spirits, and I think with the twelfth man of over 250 million Nigerians, we will always have hope”.
The Super Eagles will host Rwanda at Uyo’s Godswill Akpabio Stadium on September 3 and then visit South Africa four days later. Okoye stressed the need to win every remaining fixture and rely on rivals dropping points to keep Nigeria’s hopes alive.
Editorial
We stand behind Maduka Okoye’s confidence. His optimism reflects more than ambition—it demonstrates belief grounded in reality. Nigeria may be trailing, but in a group where only the winner qualifies directly and the runners-up can enter play‑offs, four matches provide enough time to turn fortunes around, especially with refreshed determination.
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Okoye’s call for national support hits home. The Super Eagles have rarely lacked passion, and packed stadiums at Uyo and away could be the boost they need. The role of the “twelfth man” is undeniable; when fans roar behind the team, form and focus often follow.
Looking at format changes CAF now grants direct spots to nine group winners and offers play-off opportunities to the best runners-up there is more room for recovery than ever. But this cushion should not breed complacency. Every opponent counts, and every point will matter.
We believe that if Nigeria harnesses belief, structure, and momentum, this mission is far from impossible. Okoye’s words—supported by competitive spirit may well light the way. With unity, grit, and relentless focus, the Super Eagles can still soar to North America in 2026.
Did You Know?
- The 2026 World Cup will feature 48 teams the first time FIFA has expanded the tournament—giving Africa nine direct slots plus a play-off chance.
- In CAF Group C, only the group winner qualifies directly; the four best second‑placed teams enter additional play-offs.
- Nigeria have appeared at six previous World Cups (1994, 1998, 2002, 2010, 2014, 2018), missing only in 2006 and 2022.
- A win in Kigali against Rwanda (2–0) in March buoyed hopes, but a draw with Zimbabwe shortly after halted momentum.
- Maduka Okoye stands 1.98 m tall and was named Udinese’s Player of the Month at least once in the 2023–24 season.
