Former Nigeria international John Utaka is confident the side can still secure qualification to the 2026 World Cup tournament to be staged in USA, Canada and Mexico.
The Super Eagles has struggled to find their rhythm in the qualifying series and are currently 4th on the standings in Group C, accumulating just seven points from six matches.
Nigeria defeated Rwanda 2-0 and settled for a 1-1 draw with Zimbabwe in the fifth and sixth rounds of the qualifiers during the March international break.
Despite the setbacks, John Utaka is undoubtedly confident the Super Eagles will snatch qualification to the biggest soccer mundial next year.
“We must not give up. With the kind of talent we have, we shouldn’t be in this position. We need to come together and stay focused. We must be determined like other countries.”
“In football, anything can happen. We shouldn’t give up. I still believe we can qualify, but it depends on how we approach the games ahead.” He told Brila FM.
With only one win so far, Nigeria must win all four remaining matches and rely on rivals to drop points to stand a chance of qualifying.
Nigeria will return for the continuation of the qualifiers in September. They will face Rwanda on home turf before a crucial away clash against South Africa.
It is important to note Utaka earned 44 caps and scored 6 goals for Nigeria.
