World Cup Qualification: NFF President Reveals Way Forward after Super Eagles’ Awful Performance

Following Nigeria’s surprising loss to Benin in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, Nigeria Football Federation President Ibrahim Gusau announced that steps are being implemented to rectify the team’s issues and ensure their qualification for the esteemed tournament.

When questioned about the potential changes in coaching staff or the retention of Finidi George, appointed in April, Gusau responded with a mix of acknowledgment and optimism in a video posted by photojournalist Pooja on X, Thursday.

“It’s a very sad moment for Nigerian football; we can’t run away from that,” he admitted.

“But I want to assure you that we are working tirelessly in collaboration with the minister to develop comprehensive measures that will transform the entire system so we can move forward,” he said.

Speaking after a meeting with the Minister of Sports Development, John Enoh, Gusau emphasized that World Cup qualification is still a realistic goal. “Don’t forget that it’s still possible, and we’re going to make it. I assure you we will fight to the end, and Nigeria will go to the World Cup,” he stated.

Providing insight into the federation’s plans, he revealed, “Very soon, you will see the measures that the NFF will implement, and by the grace of God, these measures will lead us to qualify for the next World Cup.”

Gusau also highlighted the upcoming African Cup of Nations qualifiers as an opportunity to showcase the team’s progress. “Before the next round of the World Cup qualifiers, we have the AFCON qualifiers, which will be played before the World Cup matches next year. These will demonstrate the steps we are taking to ensure World Cup qualification,” he explained.

He appealed for Nigerians’ support and prayers, stating, “I assure Nigerians that they should continue to pray for us. By the grace of God, we will fight to the end, and we will qualify for the World Cup.”

On Monday, the Super Eagles of Nigeria were defeated 2-1 by Benin Republic in the fourth round of the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers. Earlier, last Friday, the team played to a 1-1 draw against Bafana Bafana of South Africa in the third round of the qualifiers.

As a result of these fixtures, Nigeria is now placed fifth in the six-team table, with six games left to play. Out of their four matches so far, Nigeria has managed three draws and suffered one defeat.