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The Digest:

Nigeria's path to the 2026 FIFA World Cup has become a complex puzzle dependent on results from across the continent. The Super Eagles must not only defeat Benin Republic in Uyo but also hope that other results favor them, with the playoff hopes of rivals like Cameroon, Burkina Faso, and DR Congo potentially blocking Nigeria's narrow route to the global tournament.

Key Points:
  • Nigeria must beat the Benin Republic and hope South Africa drops points against Rwanda.
  • If South Africa wins, Nigeria's only hope is to qualify as one of the four best second-placed teams.
  • Rivals Cameroon, Burkina Faso, DR Congo, and Uganda could block Nigeria's playoff path.
  • The Super Eagles have a weak goal difference of +3, which could be a decisive factor.
  • A victory with a significant margin is crucial to improve their standing.
  • Gabon has already secured one of the four available playoff spots.
  • The final qualifying matches will be played over the next three days.
This precarious position underscores how earlier missed opportunities have left the Super Eagles' World Cup destiny largely in the hands of other nations.


Sources: Soccernet