Former Super Eagles goalkeeper Idah Peterside says Nigeria must approach tonight’s World Cup playoff final against DR Congo with absolute belief, insisting the 4–1 extra-time demolition of Gabon has restored confidence and proven that the team can rise above any crisis.
Peterside, who has been outspoken about the need for a stable environment around the national team, says what matters now is focus, mentality and execution—things he believes Eric Chelle’s men showed in abundance on Thursday night.
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With Nigeria holding a dominant historical record in this fixture—winning four AFCON meetings, including a famous 2–0 triumph in Tunis in 1994—Peterside says the past should serve as inspiration, not comfort.
He warns that DR Congo have improved drastically in recent years and will arrive with belief after years of testing Nigeria in friendlies, including a 1–1 draw in Port Harcourt in 2018.
“Tonight is not a night for panic. It is a night for maturity,” Peterside said. “Against Gabon, the boys showed character, intensity and hunger. That extra-time performance was one of the best I have seen from them in years. If they maintain that spirit, they will beat DR Congo.”
Peterside also praised Chelle’s growing influence, pointing to his impressive record since taking charge—victories over Rwanda, Ghana, Benin Republic and now Gabon—as signs that the team has found stability and an identity.
He noted that Nigeria’s ability to stay calm under pressure, especially after conceding a late equaliser against Gabon, shows a new mental toughness that will be needed tonight.
He cautioned, however, that DR Congo are unpredictable and won’t be intimidated by Nigeria’s reputation. “They are physical, fast and very direct. They will come at us. But if we stay disciplined and play with intensity, our quality will speak.”
Peterside concluded with a rallying call: “The players owe Nigeria one last push. We cannot miss the World Cup twice. Tonight, everything must be left on that pitch.”
