Ex-international Eric Ejiofor has ruled out Nigeria’s chances of securing qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Super Eagles are in a difficult situation, as they are currently six points behind Group C leaders South Africa, with only two matches remaining.
The three-time African champions had a slow start to their qualifying campaign, picking up just three points from their first four matches.
However, a 1-0 win over Rwanda had revived their faint hopes, which suffered another setback following the 1-1 draw against South Africa in Bloemfontein.
With only the first position in the group guaranteed of an automatic spot in the World Cup, Eric Chelle’s men must win both of their remaining matches and hope other group results turn out in their favor to stand any chance of qualifying.
However, South Africa face a possible point deduction after fielding an ineligible player in one of their qualifying matches..
Bafana Bafana currently have 17 points in first place, with Benin Republic in second spot with 14 points.
Nigeria occupy the third spot with 11 points and face a uphill battle of reaching next year’s event.
Eric Ejiofor makes bold statement
Speaking in an interview, the former Super Eagles defender was frustrated with the performance after the South Africa match and does not believe they will make the 2026 tournament.
“How do we want to qualify for the World Cup? Where is the opportunity? We didn’t use it”, the former Super Eagles defender said.
“When the chance is very slim, we want to start hoping and praying. From day one, we weren’t serious about it.
“I don’t think the players understand they are competing to play in the World Cup. It is so sad because their attitude towards the game isn’t encouraging.
“Many of them haven’t gone to the World Cup in their career, and this would have been the first time. I don’t know what they were thinking”, he continued.
“Apart from what the coach tells you to do, you must establish yourself on the pitch and say this is our home. You can imagine this, our last game against Rwanda, was our first home win.
“If they surprise me, good, but the way people are hopeful, it’s not me; I won’t disturb myself.
“Look at South Africa, the coach has been there for almost five years. He knows how to organise his team, and the players understand what to do”, Ejiofor concluded.
