Nigeria’s national football team, the Super Eagles, need to win their next two matches in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers according to their new head coach, Finidi George.

This comes after the team’s disappointing start, drawing their opening games against Lesotho and Zimbabwe.

Finidi, who will be officially leading the team for the first time, emphasized the importance of the upcoming matches. “The World Cup qualification matches against South Africa and Benin Republic is a collective responsibility for all Nigerians,” he told reporters. “I know I am in charge now and the heavy responsibility is on me to win the two world cup matches.”

Finidi expressed confidence in the team’s ability to qualify for the World Cup. “I will do my best to ensure success,” he said. “I am also in touch with the players and they are ready and willing to give their all having missed out in the last edition held in Qatar. In terms of having knowledge of our opponents, I have been following them.”

The coach also highlighted the importance of fan support. “We need prayers and support from everybody,” Finidi urged. “This is our own, we can do it and do it well.” 

Finidi, who has been closely following the players’ performances at their clubs, made it clear that his focus is on winning the upcoming qualifiers. “Honestly my target is to win the two matches and not to be judged with the two international friendly games played,” he concluded.