We love football so much — Mikel Obi opens up on Super Eagles World Cup hopes

Nigeria's hopes of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup were boosted by South Africa's 3-point deduction, but qualification is still far from certain.

Eric Chelle's men must defeat Lesotho and Benin to give themselves a fighting chance.

Ex-Nigeria captain Mikel Obi, speaking on the ObiOne Podcast, stressed that failing to qualify for the tournament would be unacceptable for the football-crazy nation.

“It’s going to be a crime, an absolute crime, if Nigeria doesn’t make it to the World Cup again.”

“We love our football too much. Our World Cup fate is in the players’ hands. They have to win these two games—no excuses.”

The Super Eagles currently occupy third position in Group C with 11 points from eight games, 3 points behind South Africa and Benin, who top the standings on goal difference.

First, they will travel to the New Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane this Friday to face the Crocodiles of Lesotho, before taking on Benin Republic next week Tuesday.

Meanwhile, South Africa boss Hugo Broos has backed his men to seal qualification, despite the points reduction.

The Bafana Bafana boss also claimed that Nigeria cannot exceed 17 points, which puts his side in a great position.