“It will be a big shame for Nigeria to miss the 2026 World Cup” - Abbey
- Adamu Muftawu
- Mar 8
- 1 min read
Nigeria’s World Cup qualification hopes are hanging by a thread as they need a strong run of form to stand a chance of booking slot for the finals in Mexico, Canada and USA next year.
The three-time AFCON champions currently sit fifth in Group C with just three points from four matches, trailing Rwanda who they next play away from home.
2026 World Cup Qualifying: Group C through four matches
Points | |
Rwanda | 7 |
South Africa | 7 |
Benin | 7 |
Lesotho | 5 |
Nigeria | 3 |
Zimbabwe | 2 |
The group winner qualifies for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Four of the nine group runners-up qualify for a playoff to determine Africa's representative at the intercontinental playoffs.
The 2013 continental champions have so far managed only draws against Lesotho, Zimbabwe and South Africa before suffering a disappointing 2-1 defeat to Benin.
The jerky performances have left former Super Eagles defender Abbey George asking questions about the chances of a spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
“I cried in my room when we failed in Kano,” Abbey told Brila Media. "My kids ask me if I ever played at the World Cup, and I say no. It would be a very big shame if these players never play at the World Cup."
“They’re at the peak of their powers.” Abbey said.
The 2023 AFCON runners-up will first travel to Rwanda to face Adel Amrouche’s charges in Kigali before hosting Zimbabwe at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo with the aim of reviving their poor campaign.