•Victor Osimhen
As Nigeria gears up for decisive 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches against Rwanda and Zimbabwe, Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen has emphasised the need for the team to correct past mistakes.
Osimhen who was sidelined in previous qualifiers due to injury, believes that under the leadership of new head coach Eric Chelle, the team has the potential to secure a World Cup spot.
Nigeria’s recent qualification campaign has been underwhelming, with the team yet to secure a victory in their first four matches. Draws against Lesotho, Zimbabwe, and South Africa, followed by a 2-1 loss to Benin Republic, have left their World Cup hopes hanging in the balance.
Speaking to BBC Africa, Osimhen expressed his disappointment over missing the 2022 World Cup and stressed the importance of turning things around this time. He highlighted the need for players to take responsibility and show greater commitment on the field.
“There’s a new manager now and we are desperately looking forward to the game against Rwanda to try to correct all the previous mistakes we’ve made and put ourselves in a better position to qualify
“People say we have a talented generation, but we can only confirm this talent when we play in a World Cup like those before us.
“I was sad, like my teammates, to miss out on Qatar, and our fans didn’t even understand how much it affected us,
this is why we must correct the previous mistakes by giving everything to our country, our new coach, and prove ourselves as being worthy,” he said.
Osimhen also voiced confidence in Chelle’s vision for the team, revealing that he has had discussions with the coach and understands the expectations set for the squad. He insisted that success requires more than just tactical planning—it demands total dedication from the players.
“I have spoken to him (Chelle) a couple of times and clearly understand the objectives he has set for himself and for the players.
“It takes more than a coach to win football matches. Players must also be at their best, show commitment, and bear in mind that we can all fly together to reach our goal,” he addressed.
With preparations set to begin in Kigali on March 16, Nigeria will face Rwanda at the Amahoro Stadium on March 21 before returning to Uyo for a must-win encounter against Zimbabwe on March 25.
