Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle remains optimistic about the team's chances of securing a spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Despite the setback of a draw against Zimbabwe, the Malian tactician appears to have moved past the disappointment and is now focused on upcoming fixtures. Chelle believes Nigeria, three-time African champions, can still influence their qualification hopes for the tournament set to be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. At 47, Chelle has outlined a path to qualification despite Nigeria’s sluggish start. Before his appointment, the team had failed to win any of their first four qualifiers. However, he revived belief with a 2-0 victory over Rwanda’s Amavubi in Kigali. Still, the draw with Zimbabwe’s Brave Warriors has complicated matters. Nigeria now trails group leaders South Africa by six points, with Bafana Bafana in prime position to qualify for their first World Cup since 2010. With four games remaining, the Super Eagles must win all and hope other contenders slip up. Chelle has marked the crucial clash with South Africa as a turning point in Nigeria’s qualifying journey. “It’s an obligation to win in South Africa, but the most important match for us right now is Rwanda in Uyo,” Chelle said “South Africa are a good side, but for that game, we cannot afford to let them play. First, we have to beat Rwanda at home, then we will focus on South Africa.” Nigeria is set to host Rwanda at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, on September 3rd, before traveling to face South Africa on September 7th. The Super Eagles must deliver top performances to keep their World Cup hopes on track. In preparation, the Nigeria Football Federation has lined up several warm-up matches ahead of September, including a proposed friendly against FIFA-suspended Russia, expected to take place in June.