Ivorian football great Didier Drogba has highlighted the crucial role of Nigeria’s qualification for the 2026 World Cup, praising the Super Eagles as one of Africa’s most influential teams, according to PUNCH Sports Extra.
Despite a slow start in the qualifiers, Nigeria narrowly missed topping Group C, finishing second with 17 points — just one point behind South Africa, who secured the automatic spot after a convincing 3-0 victory over Rwanda in their final match at Mbombela Stadium.
The Super Eagles demonstrated renewed determination in their recent qualifier against Benin Republic in Uyo, delivering a commanding 4-0 win that revived their World Cup ambitions after an uneven campaign.
Led by coach Eric Chelle, Nigeria will face Gabon in the semi-final on November 13. A win there will lead to a decisive clash against either Cameroon or DR Congo for Africa’s only intercontinental playoff place, with the final stage set to be held in Mexico in March 2026.
In a conversation with Sporty TV, Drogba called on Nigerians to remain patient with the team, stressing that having the three-time African champions at the World Cup is not only vital for Nigeria but also a significant boost for African football and the global game.
“It would be nice if they qualify because to have Nigeria in a World Cup is very important for Africa. But if they don’t qualify, the team that would be representing us, we will be proud to support.”
The Chelsea legend also defended the Eagles following several criticisms.
“You know, if Nigeria had won the African Cup of Nations, you wouldn’t even be saying that. But that’s football, you know, it doesn’t mean that your team is not good. They were in the final. You were supporting them all through the campaign and then all of a sudden they lose, then finish!” Drogba said.
“They’re so bad, they criticise them from right to left, and it’s always like that in Africa. You finish 2nd, it’s like Chelsea finishing 2nd in the Premier League. Like it doesn’t count.”
Drogba stressed that reaching the AFCON final is no small achievement, insisting that the current generation of Nigerian players deserves praise, not criticism.
“That’s the level of expectation because you have won before. So I think the team is good. You have Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman — they won the last two Ballon d’Or. I mean, you have a team that can perform, but then you have opposition. You think the other team, because it’s Nigeria, they’re gonna sit like this?”
0 comments:
Post a Comment