Nigeria will qualify for the next World Cup – NFF Pres. Gusau

Samuel AkpanJune 14, 20242 Mins read1.4k

After an abysmal World Cup qualifying series and a shock defeat to the Benin Republic, the President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Ibrahim Gusau, has said that Nigerians should expect holistic change in the Super Eagles.

Gusau, on Thursday, after meeting with the Minister of Sports Development, Sen. John Enoh, over the poor performance of the male football national team, said:”The Federation and the Sports Ministry are working tirelessly together to take a measure that will bring holistic change in the entire system of the Super Eagles.

“It’s a very sad moment for Nigerian football; we can’t run away from that, but all I want to assure you is that we are working tirelessly with the Minister to take holistic measures to see that we change the face of the entire system so that we can move forward.”

Gusau made it clear that all hands are on deck to ensure the Super Eagles avoid back-to-back absences at the Mundial in 2026.

He added: “Don’t forget, it is still possible, and we are going to make it, and I just want to assure you that we want to fight it to the latter and assure you that Nigeria will qualify for the World Cup.

“This is not something that I will say now, but we will soon see good measures that the NFF will come out with, and by the grace of God, those measures will lead us to qualify for the next World Cup.”

Persecondnews recalls that Enoh, demanded a detailed technical report from the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) after the Super Eagles’ disappointing performance during the June FIFA window.

See also Victor Boniface Jokes About Hanging Up Boots After Underwhelming Performance "The 24-year-old Super Eagles forward made the announcement after Nigeria's 1-1 draw against Russia in an international friendly match in Moscow on Friday" By Samuel Akpan Bayer Leverkusen striker Victor Boniface took to social media to announce his retirement from international football, only to delete the post minutes later and share a meme hinting it was all a joke. The 24-year-old Super Eagles forward made the announcement after Nigeria's 1-1 draw against Russia in an international friendly match in Moscow on Friday. In his Instagram post, Boniface expressed gratitude for the opportunity to play for his country, saying, "Proud to play for my country and a dream for me also. Really enjoyed every moment, the good and the bad. Thanks a lot. "Thank you all. I don hang boot." However, fans were not convinced, given his history of social media jokes and lighthearted antics. The international friendly match between Russia and Nigeria ended in a 1-1 draw. Russia took the lead in the 27th minute when Semi Ajayi scored an own goal, deflecting a cross from Danil Krugovoy into the net. Despite dominating the game, Nigeria struggled to find the back of the net until Tolu Arokodare, who replaced Boniface in the 61st minute, scored the equalizer in the 71st minute. Arokodare's goal was a testament to his impact on the game, and it salvaged a draw for the Super Eagles. Nigeria's goalkeeper, Maduka Okoye, also made crucial saves to prevent Russia from scoring further. The draw maintained Eric Chelle's unbeaten record as Super Eagles coach, with three wins and two draws so far. Boniface's performance against Russia was another underwhelming display, sparking criticism from fans and pundits. He failed to score or create significant chances, leading to his substitution in favour of Arokodare. Persecondnews notes that the striker has yet to score for the Super Eagles, despite playing 13 games for the national team.

Stating that “the recent results are unacceptable,” the minister said: “Despite the immense support from President Tinubu and the high expectations of Nigerian football fans, the Super Eagles have underperformed.

“The NFF must provide a comprehensive technical report explaining the reasons behind this poor showing and giving cause why there must n’t be consequences for the disappointment caused by both the government and the generality of Nigerians.”

The Super Eagles are placed fifth with three points from four matches on the Group C table, with Rwanda, South Africa, and Benin Republic in the first, second, and third positions with 7 points each.

He added: “Our supporters are passionate and devoted. They deserve an explanation for why the Super Eagles have not been performing to the expected standards since after the last AFCON.”