Former Super Eagles midfielder and assistant coach, Sylvanus Okpala, has called on Nigeria’s national football team to approach the CAF 2026 World Cup playoffs with total determination, saying the journey may be tough but is far from impossible.
Okpala, who won the 1980 AFCON as a player and the 2013 AFCON as assistant coach to the late Stephen Keshi, said in a chat with Sports Vanguard that he has always believed in fighting until the last minute, even when others lose hope.
“Before the match against Benin Republic, many had written us off,” he said. “But my philosophy, as both a player and a coach, is never to give up until there is nothing left to fight for. Even during the 1980 AFCON camp, I was among many players fighting for a spot, and I gave everything until the end. That attitude still drives me today.”
The former international noted that the team’s recent improvement shows what determination can achieve and believes the same mindset will help Nigeria succeed in the playoffs.
“It’s a long and difficult road, but not an impossible one,” he said. “The key is how the coach and players respond. Strategy matters more than formation. The coach must build his strategy around the players — their strengths and abilities.”
Okpala also defended former Super Eagles coach Austin Eguavoen, saying he should have been retained. “He stabilized the team and qualified us for AFCON 2025. Losing one match to Rwanda, after qualification, shouldn’t have defined him. You can’t judge a coach by one meaningless game,” he explained.
He maintained his belief that Nigerian coaches understand local football best. “Only Nigerian coaches can solve Nigeria’s football problems. Look at Siasia — silver medals at the U-20 World Cup and Olympics. Amuneke won the U-17 World Cup and qualified Tanzania for AFCON. When we worked with Keshi, we won AFCON and reached the World Cup. We did it together.”
On Nigeria’s playoff prospects, Okpala said the team’s chances remain bright despite missing automatic qualification. “Football has changed. It’s now global. Everyone studies everyone. Being in the playoffs doesn’t mean failure. Even the strongest leagues don’t guarantee success — look at England and Spain. What matters now is focus and unity.”
He urged fans to rally behind the team as they aim to secure a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
“We must support the team fully. Nigeria’s chances are as bright as anyone’s. The key is fighting spirit, belief, and proper strategy,” he added.
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