Former Nigerian goalkeeper Akpan Bassey has thrown his weight behind the Super Eagles, saying the team can still qualify for the 2026 World Cup despite the mounting pressure.
Speaking on Nigeria’s qualification chances, Bassey said history has shown that the Super Eagles often rise to the occasion when things get tough. “Nigeria has always been a comeback team. I’ve seen us qualify in the most dramatic ways, and I believe it can happen again,” he said.
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The former shot-stopper recalled previous qualification campaigns where Nigeria left it late but still sealed passage to the global showpiece. “It’s never easy, but the mentality of the players will decide everything. They just need to stay focused, win their games, and leave the rest to fate,” he added.
Bassey emphasized the importance of team unity and leadership within the dressing room, urging the senior players to rally the squad. “This is not the time for blame games. Every player must play for the badge and for over 200 million Nigerians counting on them,” he said.
The Super Eagles will next face Lesotho before squaring off against Benin Republic — two must-win games that will determine whether Nigeria’s World Cup dream remains alive or fades away.
