Minister tasks Super Eagles on 2026 World Cup qualification

The Minister of Sports Development, Sen. John Owan-Enoh has urged Nigeria’s Super Eagles to pick up a ticket to the FIFA World Cup 2026 by making a solid start to their qualifying campaign.

The minister stated this on Tuesday in Abuja, ahead of the team’s opening home game against Lesotho on Thursday in Uyo, in the qualifying series.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be hosted by the U.S., Mexico and Canada. The Eagles will thereafter lock horns with Zimbabwe on Sunday in match day two of the doubleheader qualifiers.

The minister stressed the need for the team to be ruthless, and avoid taking the same route that led to the heartbreaking non-qualification for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

“The memory of losing out during the qualifiers for the 2022 World Cup is still fresh in the minds of Nigerians.

“The team should avoid leaving their fate to permutations. We should bring out our best to pick the first six points in front of us,” he said.

Owan-Enoh expressed confidence in the team’s ability and highlighted the immense pride the nation holds for the Super Eagles. He urged the technical crew and the players to put their best foot forward in the two crucial games.

Also Read: Eagles camp opens for 2026 World Cup qualifiers

“I have complete faith in our talented squad. The Super Eagles have a rich history of success, and we believe they are fully capable of securing two wins in the upcoming matches.

“This is not just a football game; it is a representation of the spirit and resilience of the Nigerian people. I encourage our players to give their all on the field and make the nation proud,” he charged.

The minister also commended the coaching crew led by Jose Peseiro and support personnel for their dedication and hard work in preparing the team.

“As the Minister of Sports Development, I want to assure the full support of the government. We will continue to invest in sports infrastructure, training facilities, and programs that nurture the talent of our young athletes,” he said.

The Super Eagles, three-time AFCON Champions will open their campaign against Lesotho in Uyo on Thursday, then face Zimbabwe away on Sunday.