Tremendous Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has admitted that his group has been underneath immense strain to safe qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, however stays assured that Nigeria will rise to the event of their essential remaining qualifier towards Benin Republic.
Nigeria boosted their qualification hopes on Friday with a hard-fought 2–1 victory over Lesotho in Polokwane, because of objectives from captain William Troost-Ekong and debutant Akor Adams.
Nigeria earned their third win within the marketing campaign and it retains the Tremendous Eagles firmly in competition for a World Cup spot.
The consequence lifts Nigeria to 14 factors, simply behind South Africa (15 factors) and Benin Republic (17 factors), who secured a slender 1–0 win over Rwanda in Kigali.
Talking after the sport, Chelle expressed delight in his gamers’ resilience and willpower amid rising expectations.
“We’re comfortable as a result of we acquired the three factors — we’re nonetheless alive,” Chelle stated. “I’m happy with my gamers and I wish to congratulate them.”
“Since March, we’ve been feeling the strain as a result of Nigeria should qualify for the World Cup. Hopefully, different groups will begin to really feel that very same strain too.”
The coach additionally known as on followers to end up in massive numbers when the Tremendous Eagles host Benin Republic in Uyo on Tuesday, emphasizing the significance of residence help.
“We want our followers behind us to place strain on Benin,” he added. “That is World Cup qualification — it begins the second they arrive in our nation. We should end the job on the pitch.”
Captain William Troost-Ekong additionally mirrored on the powerful encounter towards Lesotho, acknowledging the group’s psychological power.
“Lesotho gave us a terrific combat; it wasn’t simple,” he admitted.
“We perceive the frustration from followers, however the group confirmed sturdy mentality. We’ve been underneath strain for the reason that qualifiers started, however our objective stays clear — we wish to be on the World Cup.”
Looking forward to the decisive conflict in Uyo, Troost-Ekong remained upbeat.
“We all know what’s at stake towards Benin. Now we have to win — and win convincingly. It’s going to be an enormous check, however the group is prepared. We’ve labored onerous for this second, and I’m happy with everybody.”
