World Cup qualifiers playoffs: Super Eagles defense must protect Stanley Nwabali – Jo Bonfrere

Former Nigeria head coach Jo Bonfrere has called on the Super Eagles to give goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali maximum protection during the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup African qualifying play-offs in Morocco.

The veteran tactician warned that lapses in defense could lead to “careless” goals, potentially jeopardising Nigeria’s chances of securing a spot at the World Cup to be co-hosted by Mexico, the United States, and Canada.

Speaking to Completesports.com from his home in Eijsden, Limburg, the Netherlands, Bonfrere highlighted the importance of collective defensive discipline, stressing that goalkeepers often make mistakes when left overly exposed.

“It’s important to get the defence to effectively protect the goalkeeper,” Bonfrere said.

He added, “This is not only for the defenders but every player, defenders, midfielders, attackers, they must come back on time to help defend, the same way defenders help out during attack.”

Bonfrere, who led Nigeria to Olympic gold in 1996, believes a united defensive effort will be crucial if the Super Eagles are to navigate the playoffs successfully and book their place at the 2026 World Cup.