Former Tremendous Eagles ahead Victor Ikpeba has warned that Nigeria’s 2026 World Cup playoff conflict in opposition to both Cameroon or Gabon will probably be a tough problem.
Nigeria sealed their playoff spot after a commanding 4–0 win over Benin Republic on the Godswill Akpabio Worldwide Stadium in Uyo, because of a hat-trick from Victor Osimhen and a late aim from Frank Onyeka. The victory positioned Nigeria amongst Africa’s 4 finest runners-up.
The highest 4 runners-up — Nigeria, Gabon, Cameroon, and yet one more workforce to be confirmed — will compete in a mini-tournament in November 2025. Two winners will advance to the intercontinental playoffs for a spot on the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Talking on SuperSport, Ikpeba expressed disappointment that Nigeria did not qualify immediately, stressing that the playoff stage is not going to be straightforward.
“Individuals are disillusioned. We must always have topped our group with the potential we’ve got,” Ikpeba stated. “The video games in opposition to Gabon or Cameroon will probably be very robust — these are basic African derbies.
“If we’ve got to play Cameroon, it’s going to be one other large battle. Nothing comes straightforward at this stage,” he added.
The 1997 African Footballer of the 12 months, nevertheless, backed the Tremendous Eagles to qualify in the event that they preserve the identical combating spirit and mentality.
“I want our boys all one of the best. In the event that they go into the playoffs with this identical angle, I consider we’ll get by means of,” he stated.
South Africa completed prime of Group C with 18 factors to assert the automated ticket after defeating Rwanda 3–0 in Johannesburg.
