Nigeria goalkeeper Kayode Bankole is optimistic about the Super Eagles 2026 World Cup qualification chances despite sloppy start to the qualifiers.
The three-time Africa Cup of Nations champions are currently fifth in Group C following their unimpressive start to the qualifying series.
The West African powerhouse has managed three draws and one defeat after the initial four matches. Currently trailing Rwanda, South Africa, Benin Republic, and Lesotho, the Super Eagles must deliver results to revive qualification hopes, with only the top team earning automatic slot.
However, Kayode, one of the home-based players to have made the cut for the qualifiers expressed optimism about qualification.
“Getting the call-up at this point is something amazing for me, and I know it’s a big start ahead of us because everybody expects Nigeria to qualify for the World Cup,” Bankole told NFF TV.
“I know impossible is nothing and with God on our side, I know it is going to be possible.”
The three-time Africa Cup of Nations champions takes Rwanda on Friday, March 21 before hosting Zimbabwe on March 25 in a must-win clash.
Bankole, 22, is one of the unexpected additions to the squad. While he is likely to serve as the third-choice goalkeeper behind Stanley Nwabali and Amas Obasogie, his presence adds depth and motivation to the team.
Despite limited game time this season, Bankole’s inclusion comes as a reward for his consistency, having been named the best goalkeeper in Nigeria’s domestic league for two consecutive seasons.
