Former Nigeria international Abbey George has expressed his concern over precarious situation the Super Eagles find themselves on the road to picking a ticket for the 2026 World Cup, saying it will be a shame for the current crop of players if the country fail to snatch qualification.
The West African powerhouse prepares for two crucial matches this month. The Super Eagles travel to Kigali to face Rwanda on March 21 before hosting Zimbabwe on March 25.
Currently sitting fifth in Group C, Nigeria trails Rwanda, South Africa, Benin Republic, and Lesotho.
Nigeria has only managed draws against Lesotho, Zimbabwe, and South Africa before suffering a disappointing 2-1 loss to Benin.
With only the top team earning automatic qualification, Nigeria must deliver results quickly to revive qualification hopes.
Abbey, a 2004 AFCON bronze medalist, reflected on Nigeria’s previous World Cup qualification failures and the disappointment of missing out on the global stage.
“I cried in my room when we failed in Kano,” Abbey told Brila Media. “My kids ask me if I ever played at the World Cup, and I say no. It would be a very big shame if these players never get the chance to play at the World Cup. They are at the peak of their powers.”
It is important to note Nigeria missed out in the last edition of the World Cup after falling short to rivals Ghana in the playoffs.
The 46-year-old made 18 appearances for the Nigeria national team since his debut in July 2003.
