Former African Footballer of the Year, Victor Ikpeba, has cautioned the Super Eagles against complacency ahead of their crucial 2026 World Cup qualifier against Rwanda in Kigali on Friday.
Nigeria, who are competing in Group C of the qualifiers, face the risk of missing out on the 2026 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, after a disappointing start to their qualifying campaign. Under new coach Eric Chelle, the Super Eagles are looking to bounce back with a win over Rwanda, but Ikpeba has urged the team to remain focused and avoid underestimating their opponents.
“I think facing a team that’s top of the group and defeated us last year is a tough challenge,” Ikpeba said on SuperSport TV’s Monday Night Football. “We have what it takes to beat the Rwandans, but we must earn it. We need to work hard for it.”
He emphasized that while Nigeria’s squad is full of talent, the team must not take their opponents lightly. “Names don’t win matches in African football; you have to go there and fight.”
Rwanda currently leads Group C with seven points, ahead of South Africa and Benin Republic on goal difference. Ikpeba also predicts that Rwanda will likely play for a draw, adding, “Rwanda will play for a point, but we must go for the maximum points. Three training sessions should be enough, and the players are coming with match fitness. It’s time to play for pride.”
After four matches, the Super Eagles are in fifth place with just three points, four points behind Rwanda. With six games remaining in the qualifying series, a victory against Rwanda in coach Chelle’s first match in charge would be a major boost for Nigeria’s World Cup hopes.
Following the Rwanda match, the Super Eagles will return home to face Zimbabwe next Tuesday at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo.
