Following a 2-1 victory over Lesotho and a 4-0 thumping of the Republic of Benin, the Super Eagles of Nigeria qualified for the 2026 World Cup play-offs…
Former Lazio midfielder Ogenyi Onazi has expressed confidence that the Super Eagles will overcome Gabon in next month’s crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup play-off clash, Soccernet.ng reports.
Nigeria booked their place in the African play-offs after a 4–0 demolition of Benin Republic in Uyo, following a narrow 2–1 win over Lesotho earlier in October.
The results helped the Super Eagles finish as one of the best four runners-up in the CAF qualification series, earning them a spot in the next round where they will face Gabon.
Onazi: Lazio Star On Nigeria's World Cup qualification
Speaking to Footy-Africa, Onazi said he believes the team has rediscovered its hunger and identity after a turbulent start to the qualifiers.
“I believe the team will qualify because of recent events. There were a lot of doubts in the minds of Nigerians, but this has given us another chance at qualification,” the former Lazio star said.
“A lot went wrong at the start of the qualifiers, but now, with the passion and determination the team has shown, you can see they understand what it means to play at the World Cup. The players have shown commitment, and I believe that drive will take them through.”
Nigeria, led by coach Eric Chelle, have experienced a turnaround in form, with Victor Osimhen’s hat-trick and Frank Onyeka’s strike sealing their playoff berth.
The Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) has also reaffirmed confidence in Chelle as the team prepares for the two-legged tie.
Onazi Warns Super Eagles About Gabon
The 2013 AFCON Champion, however, warned that Gabon would not be pushovers, pointing the Super Eagles of Nigeria to their technical discipline.
“It will not be an easy game because Gabon had an almost flawless qualification campaign with very good points,” Onazi noted.
“We must approach the match carefully. Football has evolved, and the Gabonese will be a tough side to face. I believe we can beat them, but the players must treat it like a World Cup or AFCON final.”
Nigeria will face Gabon in the play-off semi-final in November, with the winner set to meet either Cameroon or DR Congo for a spot in the inter-confederation play-off.
