Super Eagles goalkeeper, Stanley Nwabali and midfielder Frank Onyeka, have expressed optimism about Nigeria’s chances of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, www.aclsports.com reports.
Speaking at the second edition of the Troost-Ekong Foundation Charity Match, an event organised by Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong, both players highlighted the team’s belief, focus, and commitment ahead of the upcoming qualifiers.
Nwabali, who plays for Chippa United in South Africa, praised Troost-Ekong’s leadership and the unifying impact of the charity event, which brought together several top footballers and celebrities in support of community causes.
“Ekong is a man we all respect, not just because of football, but because he’s a leader on and off the pitch. Everyone came here today because of him, because of how he’s guided and led so many young players that have crossed paths with him.
A lot of people left what they were doing to come and support him, especially as he’s giving back to the country. We’re here to show him love and appreciate what he’s doing. He’s a really nice guy. This is the second edition of the event, and we pray for good health, long life, and support for him from every angle.”
On Nigeria’s road to the 2026 World Cup, Nwabali acknowledged the challenges ahead but maintained a positive outlook, “It’s not something I can guarantee, but it’s football. As a country, we know what’s good for us and we’re working towards it. It won’t be easy, being Nigerian doesn’t automatically mean we’ll win every game. Football has developed globally. But we still have a lot of hope, and we believe we will qualify.”
He also extended his support to the Super Falcons ahead of the 2024 WAFCON in Morocco;
“I really wish them well at the tournament, as a Nigerian and as someone who also plays for the national team, I support them fully.”
Brentford midfielder Frank Onyeka (L), who recently completed a loan spell at FC Augsburg in Germany, echoed Nwabali’s sentiments. He emphasized the team’s renewed sense of urgency as they seek to bounce back from earlier disappointing results in the qualifiers.
“We’re all focused. You could see what we did in the last couple of games, we were just unfortunate with the results. But we know what’s at stake now. We’re coming in September to give everything to make sure we qualify for the World Cup.”
Onyeka also offered encouragement to the Super Falcons, “Keep going, I know you’re going to make Nigeria proud.”
Addressing his club future, the midfielder confirmed his return to the Premier League, “Of course, I was on loan. I’ll be going back to Brentford, they’re my club, so that’s where I’ll return.”
The charity match not only brought footballers together in a show of unity and social responsibility, but also served as a platform for national team players to reaffirm their dedication to both country and community. With the 2026 World Cup qualifiers resuming in September, the messages of belief, preparation, and national pride shared by Nwabali and Onyeka will resonate with fans eager to see the Super Eagles soar again on football’s biggest stage.
