Former Nigeria international Garba Lawal has backed the Super Eagles to rise to the occasion and secure qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, insisting that the team has the quality to beat any opponent if they remain disciplined, united, and focused.
Lawal affectionately called Chindo — said the players must take full responsibility for their current situation but also recognize that they hold the power to change it.
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“These boys are the ones who got themselves here, and they are the ones who can take us out,” Lawal said.
“Nigeria has the players, the ability, and the talent to beat any team in Africa, but what we need now is total focus and determination.”
Lawal, who was part of the famous 1996 Atlanta Olympics gold medal-winning squad, warned that the playoffs would be unforgiving and that Nigeria cannot afford to take any opponent lightly. He urged the players to approach each match like a final, stressing that there is no more room for complacency or inconsistency.
“This is the time to be ruthless,” Lawal emphasized. “We have a generation of players playing in top European clubs — they must now show leadership and hunger.
Every game from now on must be played with pride and commitment because the nation depends on them.”
The former Super Eagles midfielder also praised head coach Eric Chelle for stabilizing the team in recent months but noted that success in the playoffs will depend more on the players’ mentality than tactics. “Coaches can only do so much. It’s up to the players to fight for the badge,” he added.
Lawal concluded by calling on Nigerians to rally behind the team. “Criticism won’t help now. Support, unity, and belief — that’s what will take us to the World Cup.”
