Tag: Super Eagles

Alex Iwobi Says Super Eagles Still Believe in World Cup Chance

Super Eagles midfielder Alex Iwobi has expressed cautious optimism about Nigeria’s chances of still featuring at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, despite the team’s setback in the qualification playoffs.

Nigeria’s journey toward the expanded 48-team tournament suffered a major blow after a decisive playoff defeat that left the Super Eagles without an automatic path to qualification. However, Alex Iwobi has revealed that the squad remains hopeful while awaiting the outcome of an official petition filed by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to FIFA.

Speaking recently, the Fulham midfielder emphasized that the players are “still waiting” and holding on to belief as football authorities review the disputed match circumstances.

The Super Eagles’ qualification campaign reached a turning point during the intercontinental playoff stage, where Nigeria failed to secure a winning result that would have guaranteed a place at the 2026 World Cup.

The loss effectively ended Nigeria’s chances through direct sporting qualification, placing the nation’s hopes on an off-field review process instead. For many fans, the outcome marked another frustrating moment after the team also missed out on the 2022 World Cup.

Following the playoff defeat, the Nigeria Football Federation submitted a formal complaint to FIFA questioning the eligibility of certain opposition players involved in the match.

While details surrounding the case remain under review, the NFF’s petition argues that regulatory breaches could have influenced the result. If FIFA rules in Nigeria’s favour, disciplinary measures could potentially impact the official outcome of the playoff; though such decisions are historically rare and remain uncertain.

Alex Iwobi’s recent comments reflect this uncertainty, highlighting that the squad is maintaining focus while waiting for FIFA’s final verdict.

At present, Nigeria has not secured a confirmed spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Super Eagles’ participation now depends entirely on FIFA’s ongoing investigation and any subsequent rulings.

Football governing bodies typically take time to examine eligibility disputes, meaning a final decision may not be immediate. Until then, Nigeria’s hopes remain unresolved; suspended between disappointment on the pitch and cautious optimism off it.

Despite the uncertainty, many Nigerian fans continue to support the team’s pursuit of justice through official channels. Iwobi’s public comments have helped maintain belief among supporters who are eager to see the Super Eagles return to football’s biggest stage.

Whether Nigeria ultimately earns a place at the tournament will depend on FIFA’s ruling, which remains pending as of now.

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Nigerian goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali has officially parted ways with South African Premier Soccer League side Chippa United, bringing an end to his four-year contract with the club. The announcement was made via the club’s official communication channels earlier this week, marking the end of a chapter that saw Nwabali establish himself as one of the team’s most reliable figures.

During his time at Chippa United, Nwabali was not only a first-choice goalkeeper but also served as a key leader on and off the pitch. Since joining the club in 2022, he has been instrumental in several campaigns, helping the team navigate the challenges of the PSL with resilience. His consistency and leadership earned him respect from teammates, coaches, and fans alike.

The club’s statement described the separation as a mutual agreement, emphasizing respect and gratitude for Nwabali’s contributions. While the statement did not provide details on his next career move, reports suggest that several clubs, both within South Africa and abroad, have expressed interest in securing his services.

For Nwabali, the departure from Chippa United may open doors for new opportunities, potentially returning him to international attention with the Nigerian Super Eagles, where he has previously been called up. His exit has sparked discussions among football enthusiasts, with fans expressing both admiration for his achievements at Chippa United and curiosity about his next destination.

This development also highlights the dynamic nature of football careers, where players often seek growth and new challenges after extended periods with a single club, and most especially not surprising for a goal keeper of his caliber. Nwabali leaves behind a legacy of professionalism, leadership, and dedication that will be remembered by Chippa United supporters.

As speculation continues around his next move, the football world will be watching closely to see where the talented goalkeeper lands next.

Nigeria’s Super Eagles will receive $2.5 million in prize money after finishing third at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.

The bronze medal reward follows the official prize structure released for the tournament, which allocates $2.5 million to third-place finishers. Nigeria secured the position after edging out their opponents in the third-place playoff, ending the tournament on a positive note.

AFCON 2025 came with a significantly improved financial package, reflecting CAF’s continued push to increase the tournament’s global appeal and competitiveness. Under the prize breakdown, the champions take home $10 million, runners-up earn $4 million, while fourth place receives $1.3 million. Teams that reached the quarterfinals also pocket $800,000, with additional rewards for group-stage placements.

For the Super Eagles, the bronze finish represents both a sporting and financial boost. After a challenging campaign filled with high-intensity matches and dramatic moments, Nigeria’s podium finish reaffirms their status as one of Africa’s most consistent football powerhouses.

Beyond the prize money, the team’s performance in Morocco has been widely praised by fans, with several players delivering standout displays throughout the competition. The result also provides momentum as Nigeria looks ahead to future international fixtures and qualification campaigns.

The 2026 Africa Cup of Nations quarter-final stage came to a dramatic conclusion on Saturday as Nigeria and Egypt booked their places in the semifinals, completing a final four that blends pedigree, pressure, and title ambition.

Following earlier victories by Senegal and Morocco, Saturday’s fixtures delivered intensity and decisive moments, confirming the tournament’s most competitive phase yet.

Nigeria Outclass Algeria to Reach the Semi-Finals

Nigeria confirmed their status as one of the tournament’s strongest sides with a composed 2–0 win over Algeria, producing a disciplined and controlled performance in Marrakech.

After a measured first half, the Super Eagles raised the tempo following the break. Victor Osimhen broke the deadlock shortly after halftime, powering home a header to give Nigeria a deserved lead. The striker later turned provider, setting up Akor Adams to double the advantage and seal the result.

Algeria struggled to break Nigeria’s structure as the Super Eagles managed the game expertly, limiting clear chances and seeing out the contest with confidence. The victory sets up a high-profile semi-final clash against host nation Morocco.

Egypt Edge Ivory Coast in Five-Goal Thriller

In a tightly contested encounter, Egypt defeated Ivory Coast 3–2 to secure the final semi-final spot and keep their AFCON title hopes alive.

The Pharaohs made a blistering start, opening the scoring through Omar Marmoush (4’). Rami Rabia (32’) extended Egypt’s lead before Ivory Coast found a route back into the game when Ahmed Fotouh inadvertently turned the ball into his own net in the 40th minute.

Early in the second half, Mohamed Salah (52’) restored Egypt’s two-goal cushion with a clinical finish, underlining his influence on the big stage. Ivory Coast responded through Guéla Doué (73’), setting up a tense finale, but Egypt held firm to claim a famous victory.

The result sends Egypt into a heavyweight semi-final showdown against Senegal.

AFCON 2026 Quarter-Final Results

• Senegal 1–0 Mali
• Morocco 2–0 Cameroon
• Nigeria 2–0 Algeria
• Egypt 3–2 Ivory Coast

Confirmed AFCON 2026 Semi-Final Fixtures

• Morocco vs Nigeria
• Senegal vs Egypt

The Super Eagles of Nigeria have officially received the houses and land grants promised to them following their impressive run at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Côte d’Ivoire.

The presentation of the documents took place on Monday at the team’s camp in Fez, Morocco, where the players are currently preparing for the 2025 AFCON tournament. The development puts an end to months of public discussion over the delayed rewards.

After Nigeria finished as runners-up at AFCON 2023, the federal government had announced a reward package for the players and officials in recognition of their performance. The package included housing allocations, land grants, and national honours.

This week, officials of the National Sports Commission (NSC), alongside representatives of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), handed over the certificates and title documents to the players, confirming that the pledge has now been fulfilled.

Each member of the AFCON squad received documents for a housing unit as well as plots of land, with locations spread across Abuja and Lagos, according to reports..

In addition to the property rewards, the Super Eagles players were also presented with certificates of national honours, most notably the Member of the Order of the Niger (MON), awarded for their contribution to Nigerian football and national pride.

The honours were first announced shortly after the AFCON final in early 2024, but formal documentation has now been completed.

Boost Ahead of AFCON 2025

The timing of the gesture is significant, coming just days before Nigeria’s opening fixtures at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. Beyond the material value, the fulfilment serves as a morale boost for the squad as they aim to go one step further than their AFCON 2023 finish.

Nigeria lost the 2023 final 2–1 to hosts Côte d’Ivoire, narrowly missing out on a fourth continental title. As preparations continue in Morocco, hopes remain high that the Super Eagles can convert past lessons into success on the AFCON stage.