Augustine Eguavoen believes that qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup for the Super Eagles was still “doable” as is the Super Falcons Mission X WAFCON, reports www.aclsports.com
The NFF Technical Director was speaking to www.aclsports.com at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena which was alive with energy on Sunday as football stars, celebrities, and fans turned out for the Troost-Ekong Foundation Charity Match. Themed #PlayForPurpose, the event aimed to support underprivileged children through football.
Speaking on the Super Eagles’ pursuit of a spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Eguavoen expressed confidence despite the rocky road so far.
“It’s easier said than done, but we have the potential and the personnel,” he said. “The World Cup is the highest level of football anyone wants to participate in. It’s a tight rope we’re walking, but everything is possible.”
He added that unity and consistency are crucial: “With the boys we have now and every Nigerian coming together, it is doable. I’m 100% sure because the players want to be at the World Cup. I’m not looking back at the last game, I’m looking forward to the next one. That’s the mindset: one game at a time, treat every game like a final.”
Eguavoen also commended current head coach Éric Sékou Chelle, who is on a seven-game unbeaten streak with the team.
“Very good performance,” he said. “I hope the record continues. There shouldn’t be any distractions, let him be, let him do what he feels is right, and give him control. This is not a one-man show. Collectively, we can achieve success. There hasn’t been interference so far, and I believe there won’t be.”
On the women’s front, Eguavoen reacted to the release of the squad for the 2024 WAFCON in Morocco with optimism.
“We’re the best in Africa, one of the best in the world, without mincing words. We’ve got a great mix of young and experienced players, and they’ll make us proud,” he said. “I was in Morocco the last time. They finished fourth, which was unfortunate, but that’s behind us. We’ve made progress, from the World Cup to the Olympics, and I believe this team can go all the way.”
On Nigeria’s broader ambition, known as Mission X, Eguavoen remained cautiously hopeful.
“Nobody knows tomorrow, but it’s about what you put in,” he said. “I’ve spoken with some of the players and coaches. They’re taking it one game at a time. It’s very possible.”
Regarding concerns about the limited number of friendly games for the women’s team ahead of WAFCON, he acknowledged it as a valid issue but pointed to scheduling constraints.
“We may not have had enough games, but that’s not entirely our fault, the calendar hasn’t been kind. When the windows come, we take advantage,” he explained. “Now, they’ll have two friendly games before the tournament. Remember, 70 to 80% of the players are still the same. Fitness isn’t the issue, it’s about tactical cohesion. These two games should help the coaches see where we need to improve.”
While the charity match spotlighted community impact through sport, Eguavoen’s words were a rallying call, a reminder that with the right mindset, structure, and unity, Nigeria’s football dreams remain well within reach.
