By Jacob Ajom

One-time Super Eagles invitee Viv Efosa Solomon-Otabor is confident that Nigeria will secure a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, despite their tough start to the qualification campaign.

The Cangzhou Mighty Lions forward was called up to the Super Eagles in 2019 by Gernot Rohr, stepping in for the injured Samuel Kalu ahead of the highly anticipated friendly against Brazil in Singapore.

By the time the next phase of the qualifiers will resume in March, the Super Eagles will be under new coach Eric Chelle, who has just been appointed by the Nigeria Football Federation.

Currently, Eric Chelle’s side sits 5th in Group C, having earned just three points from their opening four matches.

Although Otabor-Solomon was not part of the squad during these early fixtures, he remains hopeful that the team has the potential to turn things around.

According to him, “the Super Eagles boast the best squad in Africa”

The former Birmingham FC player emphasized the importance of team spirit and focus. He stressed that the Super Eagles must win all of their remaining qualifying matches to book their place in the prestigious tournament.

“First and foremost, the players need to remain calm, unite, and commit to winning all the upcoming matches,” Otabor-Solomon said. “The team must focus, find a way to move forward, and qualify for the next World Cup.”

“They should all remember they are top level players, and to just be themselves, and play freely and naturally everything will come together and we should be able to qualify for the World Cup”

Additionally, Otabor-Solomon called on the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to provide the necessary support to inspire the players in their quest to qualify.

The next round of qualifiers is set for March 2025, with the Super Eagles traveling to Kigali to face Group C leaders Rwanda on March 17, followed by a home fixture against Zimbabwe a week later.