2026 World Cup qualifiers: Chukwu challenges Eagles to beat ‘bigger’ teams after 6-0 win

Victor Osimhen

Former Super Eagles Coach, Christian Chukwu, has called on players and officials of the Super Eagles to focus more on winning matches against ‘bigger’ teams ahead of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, which begin in November.

Chukwu told The Guardian shortly after the Super Eagles dispatched Sao Tome and Principe 6-0 in their last group of the 2024 AFCON qualifier on Sunday, in Uyo that the players should intensify effort in making sure they raise their standard before the World Cup qualifiers.

He urged the Super Eagles to see the 6-0 win against Sao Tome and Principe as a call to keep working hard ahead of other major matches.

“I feel Super Eagles players and coaches should focus more on beating ‘bigger’ footballing nations. The World Cup qualifier will kick off in November, and Nigeria will be facing countries like South Africa, Benin Republic, Lesotho, Rwanda and Zimbabwe. Apart from South Africa, which seems to be a tougher team in the group, I believe the other countries are not push-overs.

“The Super Eagles should work hard, and they must not lose the World Cup ticket again. More emphasis should be in raising the standard of their game,” he stated.

Chukwu, a former coach of Harambee Stars of Kenya, also called on Super Eagles manager, Jose Peseiro, to give more domestic players the opportunity to showcase their skills in the senior national team.

“The victory against Sao Tome and Principe is good for the Eagles, but notwithstanding, I wished more domestic players were given the chance to play in the game,” he said.

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