The cruddy performance of the Super Eagles in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers has sparked widespread recrimination across the country.
The poor showing has been a cause for concern among football fans and stakeholders alike, prompting significant discussions on how to improve the team’s chances of securing a spot in the prestigious tournament.
One of the most notable responses came from the Minister of Sports, Senator John Owan Enoh.
On Thursday, Senator Enoh convened a crucial meeting with the hierarchy of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to devise strategies to enhance the Super Eagles’ prospects in the qualifiers.
Following the meeting, the NFF resolved to appoint a foreign coach for the Super Eagles and overhaul the Technical Committee of the Federation. Finidi George, who was appointed Super Eagles head coach only last month and helmed the ill-fated June qualifiers, will retain his position, ensuring continuity and stability within the coaching staff.
Sports Minister demands drastic improvement
Senator Enoh took to his verified X account (formerly known as Twitter) to share details of the meeting.
He revealed that he, along with the NFF officials and Finidi, discussed measures to halt the team’s downward spiral and ensure Nigeria’s qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, addressing critical areas such as coaching, technical management, player discipline, and the introduction of new talent.
He stated that he also tasked the NFF with presenting a detailed action plan within a week, outlining the steps taken to ready the team for the upcoming competitive matches.
Super Eagles have a lot to do in Group C
The Super Eagles are currently in fifth place in Group C of CAF 2026 World Cup qualifying, with three points from four games.
Rwanda top the group with seven points, sharing the same points as South Africa, who are second but ahead on goal difference. Benin, Lesotho, Nigeria, and Zimbabwe follow in that order.
During the last international window, the Super Eagles managed a 1-1 draw with South Africa’s Bafana Bafana in Uyo but suffered a disappointing defeat against Benin in Abidjan three days later.
