World Cup Playoffs: Ex-African Best Player Urges Coach Chelle to Stick With Winning Super Eagles Lineup

World Cup Playoffs: Ex-African Best Player Urges Coach Chelle to Stick With Winning Super Eagles Lineup

By Admin 

Former African Footballer of the Year, Victor Ikpeba, has advised Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle to maintain the same lineup that impressed in Nigeria’s emphatic 4–0 victory over Benin Republic in Uyo, as the team prepares for the 2026 FIFA World Cup playoffs in Morocco.

Speaking to ScoreNigeria ahead of the crucial mini-tournament, Ikpeba stressed the importance of consistency, team chemistry, and tactical stability in ensuring Nigeria’s successful qualification for the World Cup after missing out on the 2022 edition in Qatar. “You don’t change a winning team,” Ikpeba said. “This is a second chance for Nigeria to make things right. We have the quality, experience, and motivation to return to the biggest stage in world football.”

Nigeria are set to open their playoff campaign against Gabon on November 13, before taking on Cameroon in their second match. Ikpeba expressed confidence in the team’s ability to overcome both opponents, citing Nigeria’s superior depth and international pedigree.

 “Gabon have never qualified for the World Cup, and Cameroon are no longer as dominant as they used to be,” he added. “If we stay focused and play with the same hunger we showed against Benin, qualification should be within our grasp.”

The former AS Monaco and Super Eagles striker also lauded the form of key players in the squad, particularly Nigeria’s leading striker and a Chelsea winger whose performances have been attracting widespread acclaim.

Ikpeba urged the team to maintain their current momentum, warning against unnecessary tactical changes that could disrupt the rhythm built in recent matches.

 “With the right mentality and minimal disruption to our setup, this team can reclaim Nigeria’s place among the world’s elite,” he said.

He also called on Nigerian fans to rally behind the Super Eagles, framing the Morocco playoffs as not only a quest for qualification but a chance to restore pride and reaffirm the nation’s footballing strength.

 “This is our moment to show that Nigeria remains a powerhouse in African football,” Ikpeba concluded.