NFF officially cancels Super Eagles friendly games after making World Cup playoffs

Nigeria were on the verge of missing out on the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a poor start left them fighting for their lives.

Their poor performance left them in third place, behind Benin Republic and South Africa, until the final game of the qualifiers.

The Super Eagles of Nigeria made the World Cup playoffs after defeating Benin Republic 4-0 on Tuesday at the Godwin Akpabio Stadium.

Sources within the NFF have indicated that the decision was made following the Super Eagles' successful qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup playoffs, which will be held in Morocco next month.

The primary reason for the cancellation is a direct scheduling conflict. The friendlies were slated for the same period as the crucial playoff matches and the federation wants the team to remain fully focused on their World Cup qualification campaign.

"The friendlies have been called off because the date clashed with the World Cup playoffs slated for Morocco in November," an NFF official confirmed. 

"Besides, the clause in the friendlies allows for cancellation should the Super Eagles qualify for the 2026 World Cup."

Nigeria was originally scheduled to play Venezuela on November 14 and Colombia on November 18. 

However, the Super Eagles will now face Gabon in the World Cup playoff semi-final on November 13 in Morocco. The final of the playoff tournament is scheduled for November 16.