•Chelle and Super Eagles
Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has called on Nigerians to rally behind the team and create an intense atmosphere for Benin Republic when both sides clash in Tuesday’s final 2026 World Cup qualifier in Uyo.
Speaking after Nigeria’s crucial 2-1 win over Lesotho in Polokwane on Friday, the Malian tactician said the victory had eased some pressure on his players and reignited their qualification hopes, reports Sunday PUNCH.
“I’m proud of my players and I congratulate them. Since March, we’ve been under immense pressure because for Nigeria, qualifying for the World Cup is not optional. My players feel that every time they come to camp. But now, maybe it’s time for other teams to feel the same pressure too,” Chelle said.
“We need our fans to be behind us and make it tough for Benin. This is the World Cup qualifier, the game starts the moment they step into our country. We must do the job on the pitch.”
Nigeria currently sit third in Group C with 14 points, trailing South Africa on 15 points and leaders Benin Republic on 17 points.
The Super Eagles must beat Benin convincingly at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium, while hoping South Africa fail to defeat Rwanda in Mbombela if they are to top the group and secure automatic qualification.
With South Africa held to a goalless draw by Zimbabwe in Durban and Benin edging Rwanda 1-0 in Kigali on Friday, Group C qualification will go down to the wire on Tuesday.
Second-half goals from captain William Troost-Ekong and debutant Akor Adams secured the victory over Lesotho, though goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali’s late error gifted the hosts a consolation goal that made for a nervous finish.
The Super Eagles departed Polokwane yesterday for Uyo, where they will hold their final preparations before Tuesday’s showdown.
Nigeria are seeking to avoid missing consecutive World Cup finals for the first time in their history, having failed to qualify for the 2022 edition in Qatar.
