Nigerian football icon Austin Jay-Jay Okocha has shared a positive outlook on the Super Eagles’ chances of advancing in their quest to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Nigeria will take on Gabon in the playoff round on Thursday at the Hide Moulay Hassan Stadium in Morocco. The winner will progress to face either DR Congo or Cameroon for an opportunity to represent Africa in the inter-continental playoff for a World Cup ticket.
Speaking with journalists,, Okocha expressed confidence in head coach Eric Chelle’s squad and their ability to overcome the difficult position they find themselves in.
“Once there is a glimmer of hope, of course I will believe, and that is the beauty of football,” Okocha said.
“I still trust this team; I still believe it is possible [Nigeria qualify for the World Cup]. We put ourselves in this situation, and we are the only ones who can bring ourselves out of it.
“From their last outing, you could see the desire to correct their mistakes. They’ve given us hope.”
Okocha’s remarks reflect a renewed sense of optimism among supporters as the Super Eagles gear up for a decisive test in their World Cup qualification campaign.
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