Nigeria will qualify for 2026 World Cup — Ex-International James Etokebe

By Keresifon Essien and Maxwell Kumoye 
 
 
Former Super Eagles winger, James Easien Etokebe, has expressed confidence that Nigeria will secure qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, citing the team’s renewed form and fighting spirit.

Speaking in an exclusive online interview with KSM from his base in Norway, the former Leventis United star said the Super Eagles have shown significant improvement since their slow start in the qualifying campaign.

“It’s unfortunate that Nigeria didn’t begin the World Cup qualifiers on a strong note. Those two draws at home in Uyo really put our chances under pressure,” Etokebe said.

“But it’s encouraging to see the team pick up form and fight back. I believe they have what it takes to grab the remaining ticket to the World Cup during the CAF play-offs next month.”

Etokebe added that with the determination and quality currently in the squad, Nigeria stands a great chance of edging out their African rivals — Gabon, Cameroon, and DR Congo — when the final playoff battles are decided.

Recalling his own days in the green-and-white jersey, Etokebe fondly remembered his key role in the 1984 Africa Cup of Nations final in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire. It was his precise cross from the left flank that set up Muda Lawal for Nigeria’s opening goal against a Roger Milla-led Cameroon side, though the match eventually ended 3–1 in favour of Cameroon.

“That match remains one of the highlights of my career,” he reflected. “Now, I just hope to see this new generation of players take Nigeria back to where we belong — on the world stage.”

Source: KSM 

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