Victor Osimhen emphasizes Nigeria’s desperation to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, following a disappointing campaign that saw them miss Qatar 2022. Currently, the team has secured only one point in their qualifiers. Under new coach Eric Chelle, the Super Eagles aim to correct previous mistakes and leverage their talented roster to achieve qualification.
Victor Osimhen has expressed Nigeria’s urgent drive to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, emphasizing their determination to avoid missing out for a second consecutive time. The Super Eagles have struggled early in qualifying, securing just one point from four matches. Osimhen, absent due to injury, recalled the disappointment of missing Qatar 2022 after Nigeria’s failure to overcome Ghana in playoffs.
Osimhen highlighted that playing in the World Cup is a universal dream for footballers. He mentioned, “It’s a dream of every footballer to play at the World Cup and with our situation in the group I am desperate, like other players, to make it to the 2026 tournament.” The team’s standings have become precarious, as they are currently four points behind group leaders Rwanda.
The Super Eagles, now under new coach Eric Chelle, seek urgent improvements after a lackluster start. Chelle is the third coach since November 2023, following Jose Peseiro and Finidi George. Osimhen emphasized the need to address prior mistakes to improve their situation in the group: “There’s a new manager now and we are desperately looking forward to the game against Rwanda.”
As the 2023 African Footballer of the Year, Osimhen expressed regret over missing the last World Cup. He believes a strong lineup, including players like Ademola Lookman and Moses Simon, is capable of achieving qualification for the upcoming global event. He stated, “People say we have a talented generation but we can only confirm this talent when we play in a World Cup like those before us.”
Chelle’s appointment, which was met with mixed reactions, is seen as a boost for the team. Osimhen noted his discussions with Chelle and his understanding of the team’s goals. He emphasized the importance of player commitment and teamwork, stating, “It takes more than a coach to win football matches. Players must also be at their best.”
Looking ahead, Nigeria is poised for challenges in both the World Cup qualifiers and the 2025 AFCON. Osimhen is mindful of the unpredictable nature of African football and the pressure of delivering results: “We must take each game as it comes and remember that we are yet to win anything for Nigeria.” The qualifiers will conclude before the AFCON kickoff in December, with Nigeria’s route to the World Cup hinging on group performances.
With the higher stakes of qualification in mind, Osimhen urges caution against complacency, reinforcing the significance of dedication: “Names no longer win matches and you must be ready… for the duration of the games.” For Osimhen and the Super Eagles, securing a World Cup spot is paramount, and they aim to realize it in the upcoming qualifiers.
Victor Osimhen’s determination reflects the broader urgency in Nigerian football to qualify for the 2026 World Cup. After a setback in Qatar 2022, the Super Eagles face must-win matches in their qualifiers. With a new coach and a squad of talented players, the focus remains on correcting past mistakes and achieving the goal of World Cup participation, while navigating the unpredictable nature of African football. Osimhen underlines the need for commitment and collective effort as Nigeria pursues its aspirations.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
