FIFA 2026 World Cup Qualifiers: Nigeria Super Eagles begin countdown as do-or-die showdown looms

The Nigeria Super Eagles have officially begun the countdown to a decisive moment in their FIFA 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign, with a do-or-die showdown looming that could make or break their tournament dreams.

Sitting precariously fourth in Group C after six matches, Nigeria trails group leaders South Africa by six points and is just one point behind surprise contenders Rwanda and Benin Republic, who are currently tied on eight points. 

With the FIFA qualifiers set to resume early next month, the pressure is mounting on coach Eric Chelle to revive Nigeria’s fading chances of World Cup qualification.

Chelle, who endured a difficult campaign at CHAN 2024 with the home-based team, is expected to announce his squad for the crucial qualifiers within days. 

The upcoming double-header against Rwanda and South Africa carries immense significance and could ultimately determine the Super Eagles’ fate in the race for FIFA 2026.

Ahead of the squad reveal, the team has taken to social media to build anticipation, using captain William Troost-Ekong’s iconic raised three fingers as a symbolic countdown. 

On X, formerly Twitter, the Super Eagles posted: “The look when you’re counting down to the 2026 FIFA WCQ squad drop. We are all Ekong.”

So far in the qualifiers, Nigeria has managed only one victory from six games, scoring a total of seven goals. 

With the stakes higher than ever, all eyes will be on Chelle’s squad selection and the team’s response in what promises to be a make-or-break phase for the proud nation’s World Cup ambitions.