Former Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) president Amaju Pinnick has urged the Super Eagles to rise to the occasion as they prepare for their crucial World Cup playoff clash in Morocco, insisting that the team has received all the necessary support to succeed.
Speaking during a media interaction in Lagos, Pinnick revealed that the National Sports Commission (NSC) and key football stakeholders have been working tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure the squad is fully ready for the decisive double-header.
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“Everyone involved has had sleepless nights making sure the team is well prepared,” Pinnick said. “We’ve provided the best possible environment — now it’s up to the players to deliver.”
He acknowledged the huge expectations on the team but maintained confidence that Nigeria would come out stronger, saying the nation is known for producing its best performances when the pressure is at its peak.
“There is no magic in football, only preparation, focus and belief,” he added. “Nigeria has always surprised the world when faith in the team seems low — this could be one of those moments again.”
The Super Eagles are set to face Gabon in the playoff tie, which will be played on neutral ground in Morocco, with a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup at stake. After a mixed qualifying campaign, the team is now under intense scrutiny from fans who demand a return to the global stage following the disappointment of missing the 2022 edition in Qatar.
Pinnick called for unity and positivity across all quarters of Nigerian football, stressing that criticism should give way to collective support.
“This is the time for everyone — the federation, players and fans — to stand together,” he said. “We all want one thing: to see Nigeria back at the World Cup.”
 president Amaju Pinnick has urged the Super Eagles to rise to the occasion as they prepare for their crucial World Cup playoff clash){kind=link}