Rangers defender Leon Balogun has urged the Super Eagles to approach the final six matches of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers with a winning mentality, stressing that settling for anything less is not an option in the upcoming critical fixtures against Rwanda and Zimbabwe next month.
Currently, the Super Eagles face a tough challenge in Group C, sitting in fifth place with just three points from four matches. They trail Rwanda, South Africa, and Benin, who are tied for the top three spots, by seven points.
Despite the uphill battle, Balogun remains hopeful about the team’s prospects of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup, set to be hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the USA.
Speaking in an interview with Ayodele Olu Ibidapo on his official YouTube channel, Balogun emphasized the need for the players to maintain strong self-belief.
“It’s a tough situation, and many think it’s impossible, but you must have supreme confidence when playing for the Super Eagles,” he said. “We are the top team in Africa, and we need to reclaim that position. Our reputation is still there, but it’s time to back it up with performances.”
While acknowledging the team’s recent setbacks, Balogun encouraged the squad to focus on the remaining six games, insisting that each offers a fresh opportunity for redemption.
“Recently, we fell short, but no one is exempt from making mistakes. With six games left, we have six chances to make things right. Why not go in with supreme confidence? Look at the players we have; there’s no team we should fear. The focus needs to be on ourselves,” Balogun stated.
The experienced defender also commended the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) for appointing Eric Chelle, giving the new manager ample time to assess the team and prepare for the upcoming qualifiers. “The NFF has done a great job in bringing in a new coach just in time for him to scout, assess players, and prepare properly. He has a strong foundation and an incredibly talented squad to work with,” Balogun concluded.
