Joseph Yobo Shares His Thoughts: Will Nigeria Qualify for the 2026 World Cup?
Joseph Yobo Shares His Thoughts: Will Nigeria Qualify for the 2026 World Cup?
Former Super Eagles captain Joseph Yobo has encouraged Nigerians to stay optimistic about the national team’s chances of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, despite their difficult standing in the qualifiers.
Speaking on the sidelines of the William Troost-Ekong Charity Match at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Lagos, Yobo emphasized that the qualification battle is still very much alive and urged fans to keep supporting the team.
Nigeria currently sits fourth in Group C of the CAF World Cup qualifiers, with just seven points from six matches—six points adrift of group leaders South Africa, who top the standings with 13 points. With only four games remaining, the Super Eagles must win all their fixtures to stand a realistic chance of securing a ticket to the tournament scheduled to take place across the United States, Canada, and Mexico
It’s a tough space, but there’s still a possibility,” Yobo said. “We’ve been here before. What this team needs is to grind out results. They must stay united, stay focused, and above all, understand that it’s not about playing beautiful football now—it’s about getting the results.”
The former Everton defender emphasized the importance of consistency and mental strength, noting that any further slip-up could doom Nigeria’s qualification hopes. “If we drop any more points in the group, then we’re out of the race,” he warned.
Yobo, who also served as an assistant coach to the Super Eagles under former manager Gernot Rohr, expressed confidence in the current squad. “I believe in this group of players. I’ve worked with them closely and I know what they are capable of. Sometimes it takes tough situations like this to wake a team up. I hope they rise to the occasion.”
Looking ahead, Nigeria is scheduled to face Rwanda at home and South Africa away in September. The final two qualifiers will be played in October, with an away fixture against Lesotho and a home clash against Benin Republic
On his coaching future, Yobo hinted at uncertainty, revealing that while he has tested the waters, he’s not fully sold on the idea of returning to the dugout just yet.
“I’ve tried coaching but the experience wasn’t entirely encouraging,” he admitted. “I’ve been a leader and captain during my playing days, but coaching hasn’t been enticing enough for me to commit fully. The system needs to do more to attract former players back into the game in that capacity.”
Reflecting on his club career, Yobo described his time at English Premier League side Everton as a defining chapter in his life.
“I spent nine incredible years at Goodison Park. It’s a place filled with unforgettable memories—from the dressing room to the pitch,” Yobo said. “I was touched when I received an invitation to the launch of their new stadium, even though I couldn’t attend. Football is constantly evolving, and I’m glad to see Everton transitioning to a larger, more modern facility.”
Though he’s currently not active in coaching, Yobo remains a respected figure in Nigerian football, and his insights continue to resonate as the Super Eagles approach a crucial phase in their World Cup qualifying campaign.
