Super Eagles and Galatasaray forward Victor Osimhen has urged his teammates to give their all as they prepare for crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe.
The 26-year-old is set to lead Nigeria’s attack when the three-time AFCON champions face Rwanda in Kigali on March 19, marking Eric Chelle’s debut as Super Eagles head coach.
After missing out on the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, Osimhen is determined to ensure Nigeria does not repeat the same mistake in their bid to qualify for the next edition.
Osimhen celebrating his goal for the Super Eagles against Guinea Bissau in the AFCON.
A Mission to Right the Wrongs
Speaking in an interview with BBC Sports, the Napoli loanee emphasized the team’s renewed focus and the need to learn from past failures.
“There’s a new manager now, and we are looking forward to the game against Rwanda to correct our previous mistakes and put ourselves in a better position to qualify.
“People say we have a talented generation, but we can only prove that by playing at the World Cup. Missing out on Qatar was painful—not just for our fans, but for us as well.”
READ MORE:Osimhen reveals the real reason he left Napoli for Galatasaray
Osimhen stressed that talent alone is not enough to secure victories, urging the team to maintain full concentration throughout the qualification process.
“Names no longer win matches. You have to be fully prepared and switched on for the entire game. We are playing for our country, our families, and nearly 300 million Nigerians.
“It’s not about pressure—it’s about our determination to succeed. Playing at the World Cup is a priority, and we must make sure we get there.”
Nigeria currently sits second in their World Cup qualifying group, four points behind leaders Rwanda. Wins against Rwanda and Zimbabwe would strengthen their position, but the qualification battle remains far from over.
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To secure a spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup—set to be hosted in the USA, Canada, and Mexico—the Super Eagles must maintain consistency and claim maximum points in their remaining fixtures.
