Michael Nees, the previous head coach of the Zimbabwe nationwide soccer group, has admitted his nation is out of the race for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff in Morocco — however says he sees Nigeria’s Tremendous Eagles as very able to advancing by means of the ultimate knockout stage.
Nees, whose tenure ended following Zimbabwe’s elimination, mentioned the playoff format — a single-leg knockout held in Morocco in November — magnifies each mistake. “While you’re within the combine, one dangerous second or one missed likelihood turns into your exit ticket,” he defined.
He picked out the Tremendous Eagles as a group that seems to be putting the proper steadiness on the proper time. “Nigeria are constructed for this type of take a look at — as soon as they settle, they’ve tempo, energy, expertise and expertise,” Nees mentioned.
“The playoff in Morocco is brutal. The Tremendous Eagles know the job forward, and I imagine they’ll deal with it.”
Whereas Zimbabwe’s marketing campaign faltered, Nees defended his gamers, saying that structural deficiencies moderately than particular person high quality had held them again. But he branded Nigeria’s process as no much less formidable. “They should be mentally prepared, tactically sharp and thematically clear,” he added.
The playoff occasion, scheduled from 13 to 16 November in Morocco, will decide Africa’s closing representatives for the World Cup within the USA, Canada and Mexico subsequent 12 months. The Tremendous Eagles, who secured their playoff berth, now head into their preparation camp with renewed urgency.
Regardless of his dismissal, Nees mentioned he needs Nigeria properly — emphasising that when African powerhouses rise, the continent advantages. “Nigeria making it strengthens African soccer,” he mentioned. “When one of many bigs is there, it raises everybody.”
If all goes proper, Nigeria will enter Morocco as one of many favourites — and Nees believes they are prepared
