Mikel Obi urges Super Eagles to ‘take responsibility’ ahead of crucial final World Cup Qualifiers

Nigerian football legend Mikel John Obi has challenged the Super Eagles to show character and determination as they fight to keep their 2026 FIFA World Cup hopes alive.

The three-time Africa Cup of Nations champions face a daunting task in Group C, where they currently sit third with 11 points — three behind leaders Benin and second-placed South Africa. With just two matches remaining, against Lesotho and Benin, Nigeria must win both and hope their rivals drop points to secure qualification for the tournament in North America.

Mikel, who captained Nigeria during his illustrious career, said failure to qualify again would be unforgivable.

“It’s going to be a crime — an absolute crime — if Nigeria doesn’t make it to the World Cup again,” he told Pulse Sports Nigeria.

“We love our football too much. Our World Cup fate is in the players’ hands. They have to win these two games, no excuse.”

The former Chelsea midfielder urged the team to put internal issues aside and focus solely on results.

“At this stage, every off-field problem goes out the window. It’s about the players now. They must take responsibility and deliver. Nigerians are counting on them,” he said.

“Yes, there are problems in the NFF — everyone knows that — but right now, that doesn’t matter. Win your two games first; the rest we can discuss later.”

Reflecting on his time as captain, Mikel said leadership and unity are key.

“When I captained the team, responsibility came first. You put your frustrations aside. The players need to have a meeting, talk to each other, and pull together. They still have a chance — and they have the quality to do it.”

He expressed confidence in the current squad’s depth and balance across all departments, insisting that belief and focus will be decisive.

“We have great players in every department — a solid defence, a balanced midfield, and some of the best attackers in Africa. We just need the mentality, the hunger, and the focus to get it done.”

Nigeria will take on Lesotho at the Peter Mokaba Stadium on Friday at 18:00 GMT, in a fixture that could determine whether the Super Eagles’ World Cup dream remains alive.