Former Nigerian international Friday Ekpo has urged the Super Eagles to approach next month’s 2026 FIFA World Cup playoffs with maximum focus and intensity, warning against slow starts as the decisive stage looms.

The Super Eagles secured their place in the playoffs with a commanding 4–0 victory over the Benin Republic on the final day of the qualifiers, sealing a runners-up spot in Group C.

The playoffs will feature the best runners-up from the African qualifiers in a semi-final and final format, with the overall winner advancing to the FIFA Inter-Confederation Playoff for Africa’s potential 10th World Cup slot.

The decisive matches are scheduled to be held between November 10 and 18 in Morocco.

Speaking to Complete Sports, the former Super Eagles midfielder praised the team’s strong finish but expressed frustration that Nigeria must go through the playoff route.

“Congratulations to the Super Eagles for qualifying for the playoffs of the 2026 World Cup. The team realised they needed to win and also win with goals,” Ekpo said.

He added, “I am happy that we defeated Benin today, but I am not happy that the Super Eagles will be going through the stress of the playoff to qualify for the 2026 World Cup. This is something that we should sit back and think about so that it won’t repeat itself.”

Ekpo emphasised that Nigeria must start strongly and maintain high intensity throughout the playoff encounters if they are to secure a World Cup ticket.

“Talking about the playoff, the Super Eagles must come with their ‘A’ games and avoid starting slowly. I wish the Super Eagles all the best,” he added.

The Super Eagles are aiming not to miss out on a back-to-back World Cup after missing out in Qatar in 2022.