Former Super Eagles captain Joseph Yobo has passionately emphasized the importance of Nigeria qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, describing it as a non-negotiable goal for the nation’s football team. Speaking in an interview, Yobo reflected on the painful experience of missing the 2006 World Cup during his playing days and warned that history must not repeat itself.
Yobo acknowledged the tough situation Nigeria currently faces in the qualifiers, sitting third in Group C with only a slim chance of progressing. He called on the players, technical staff, and Nigerians to rally behind the team as they prepare for the crucial final matches, stressing that every game must be approached like a cup final.
“The World Cup is the biggest stage in football. It impacts players, fans, and even the country’s economy,” Yobo said. He highlighted how missing previous tournaments has affected not only players’ careers but also national pride and development.
While remaining hopeful and optimistic, Yobo admitted that Nigeria may need a miracle to qualify given the current standings but insisted that the team must play with intensity, unity, and determination to give themselves the best chance.
Yobo’s call to action reinforces the urgency of Nigeria’s quest to return to the global footballing stage and the need to avoid complacency or repeated mistakes.
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