Former Super Eagles midfielder Nosa Igiebor has urged Nigeria’s players to remain fully focused on the upcoming World Cup playoffs in Morocco, warning against complacency or distractions from outside noise.
Speaking after Nigeria’s qualification for the playoff stage, the 2013 AFCON winner praised the team’s resilience but reminded the players that the toughest battles still lie ahead.
Read Also: Super Eagles Boss Eric Chelle Rallies Squad: ‘All Focus Now on World Cup Playoffs in Morocco — No Distractions, No Excuses!’
“This is not the time to get carried away,” Igiebor said. “We’ve done well to reach the playoffs, but the real work starts now. Every team that’s made it this far is hungry, and if we lose focus for one second, it could cost us the World Cup ticket.”
The former Real Betis and Maccabi Tel Aviv playmaker emphasized that the Super Eagles must take each match as it comes, especially in the knockout-style format expected in Morocco next month.
“Forget about other teams and focus on your own job,” he continued. “It doesn’t matter who we face — Gabon, Cameroon, or anyone else — what matters is how we approach the game. Win your battles, play for the badge, and give 100%.”
Igiebor also called on senior players like William Troost-Ekong, Alex Iwobi, and Victor Osimhen to lead by example, saying their experience could be decisive in Morocco.
“These are the kind of games that define players’ careers,” he said. “The World Cup is the biggest stage, and Nigeria belongs there. The boys must go to Morocco with belief, discipline, and unity.”
The CAF World Cup playoff tournament will take place in Morocco in November, determining Africa’s final qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico.
