Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle and captain William Troost-Ekong have vowed to give Nigerians a strong performance.
They assured fans the team is fully focused on defeating Benin Republic to keep World Cup hopes alive.
Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle and captain William Troost-Ekong have promised Nigerians a strong performance as the team faces Benin Republic in Tuesday’s crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier in Uyo.
Chelle told journalists during the pre-match press conference on Monday that his players were focused and determined to win at all costs.
“We have to win this game. Our focus is on victory because we want to qualify for the World Cup,” Chelle said. “The players know what is at stake, and even if there’s a bit of pressure, we are ready to give everything.”
Troost-Ekong also expressed confidence in the team’s readiness, saying every player was motivated to make history. “We all want to be remembered for something. Everyone here knows the importance of this match and will fight to win,” he said. “It may not be fully in our hands, but we will give our best.”
The Super Eagles’ preparations were briefly disrupted after their flight to Uyo was forced to make an emergency return to Luanda, Angola, due to a cracked windscreen. Despite the travel delay, Chelle assured that team morale remained high and that the players were eager to deliver a positive result for the country.
Nigeria’s qualification chances are hanging in the balance as they face group leaders Benin Republic in the final Group C game. The Super Eagles currently sit third with 14 points from nine matches, three points behind Benin and one behind South Africa.
To qualify automatically for the 2026 World Cup, Nigeria must defeat Benin and hope South Africa fail to win against Rwanda in Mbombela. If South Africa win, the Eagles would need a wide goal margin to overtake them on goal difference and secure a playoff spot.
