By Isaac Afolabi
Former Super Eagles forward, Femi Opabunmi, has expressed confidence that Nigeria has all it takes to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, despite the tough competition ahead in the African playoffs.
Opabunmi, who represented Nigeria at the 2002 FIFA World Cup and was a standout player at the 2001 FIFA U-17 World Cup, made this known in an exclusive interview at the Dipo Dina Stadium, Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State.
He acknowledged that every African team in the playoffs harbours strong ambitions to qualify, but urged the Super Eagles to remain focused and committed, noting that the journey to the World Cup will not be an easy one.
“It won’t be an easy task because every team wants to be at the World Cup, but I believe Nigeria has the players and the quality to make it,” he said.
The former Grasshopper Club Zürich of Switzerland player specifically called on the Super Eagles to emulate the work ethic and passion of Victor Osimhen, describing the Galatasaray of Turkey striker as a player who always gives more than 100 percent for the team.
While commending the Super Eagles for their recent 4–0 victory over Benin Republic in Uyo, Opabunmi also appealed to football authorities in Nigeria to continue supporting the team through proper motivation and strategic planning ahead of the decisive playoffs.
“With good preparation, motivation, and teamwork, we can surely qualify for the 2026 World Cup,” he concluded.