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Gernot Rohr names what Nigeria must do to avoid missing out on the 2026 FIFA World Cup

Gernot Rohr names what Nigeria must do to avoid missing out on the 2026 FIFA World Cup

  • Nigeria currently sits fifth in Group C in the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying series.
  • The Super Eagles are at risk of missing out on consecutive World Cup tournaments as they are yet to win their four matches.
  • Benin Republic coach Gernot Rohr has named one thing the West African country must do to avoid missing out on the 2026 World Cup.

The focus has now shifted to the Nigerian team’s next big goal: securing a spot at the FIFA World Cup after successfully qualifying for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.

While the Super Eagles dominated their AFCON qualifying campaign, their ongoing World Cup qualifying trip tells a different story.

Nigeria's Super Eagles players line up for a team photo
Nigeria’s Super Eagles players line up for photos before their match against Benin Republic. Image: Sia Kambu.
Source: Getty Images

According to Fotmob, Nigeria currently sit fifth in Group C with just three points from a possible 12.

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Despite the difficulties, there is still a glimmer of hope for the Super Eagles as none of the four teams above them have clinched the group lead.

As Nigeria prepares for what promises to be a herculean test, Benin Republic coach Gernot Rohr has identified a key area that the Super Eagles must work on if they are to avoid missing out on the 2026 World Cup in the Americas.

Rohr speaks out about Nigeria’s qualification for World Cup

In an interview with OwnGoalNigeria, the seasoned tactician described the difficult situation the Nigerian team is currently facing. However, the Franco-German coach expressed confidence in the Super Eagles’ ability to turn the tide given their quality and experience.

“The Super Eagles cannot afford to miss two World Cups in a row and that is why I believe they can still get back into the 2026 World Cup race,” said Rohr, who led Nigeria to qualify for the 2018 World Cup.

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“Teams in each group still have six more games to play, meaning qualification is still possible. The first-place team automatically qualifies, but second place still has a chance.”

“Nigeria has the best collection of players but they must remain fully focused if they want to qualify. To succeed, they need a strong fighting spirit. The path will not be easy – they will still have to play in South Africa and other difficult venues. “Rohr added.

Since their debut at the 1994 FIFA World Cup, the Super Eagles have never missed out on consecutive tournaments. They will be looking to continue this impressive record in the qualifying series.

Rohr named Benin’s next target

Legit.ng Another report details that Coach Rohr has identified his Benin team’s next target after securing AFCON qualification.

The veteran tactician said the immediate goal is to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Benin has never qualified for the World Cup in their country’s history.

Source: Legit.ng