The Super Eagles of Nigeria are set to play two more matches in the African qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, before facing a final test in the Intercontinental playoff that will determine their participation in football’s biggest stage. Nigeria, who finished their qualifying group with 17 points, currently sit second in the standings but are in contention for one of the playoff berths. Following adjustments reflecting the two points earned against Zimbabwe, the team’s final tally stands at 15 points. According to the Confederation of African Football (CAF) format, four African teams—Gabon, Cameroon, Nigeria, and possibly DR Congo (depending on results against Burkina Faso)—will compete in a semifinal and final playoff round to determine Africa’s sole representative in the Intercontinental playoff. The winner of that final stage will then face teams from other continents for a chance to secure one of the last available qualification slots for the 2026 Mundial, which will be hosted jointly by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. This development keeps Nigeria’s World Cup dream alive, as the Super Eagles aim to return to the global tournament after missing out on the 2022 edition in Qatar. Meanwhile, football analysts have noted that the team’s emphatic 4–0 victory over Benin Republic, powered by Victor Osimhen’s hat-trick, has restored fans’ confidence in Nigeria’s quest for a return to the world stage.
Super Eagles Advance to African Playoffs for 2026 World Cup Spot
