As the ideal birthday gift, former Super Eagles captain Ahmed Musa has urged the team to “win the game” ahead of tonight’s pivotal World Cup qualifying match against the Benin Republic.
The Super Eagles know that only a win will give them a realistic chance to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico when they play the Cheetahs at Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo p.m. tonight.
With 14 points, Eric Chelle’s team is currently in third place in Group C, one point behind leaders Benin Republic and South Africa.
In a video that was uploaded to the Super Eagles’ official X handle, Musa, who turned 32 today, offered his best wishes and rallying cry.
We all understand the stakes: win the game and watch for the outcome. I’m confident you can succeed. Guys, this would be the most wonderful birthday present for me. I hope you all have a great future and I miss you all. Let’s try again today; I’m sure we can succeed,” Musa added.
According to reports, the Super Eagles’ prospects of qualifying are in jeopardy following a patchy season in which the club has struggled for consistency. To get a trip to North America, Nigeria needs to defeat the Benin Republic and pray that South Africa loses to Rwanda.
Nigeria will undoubtedly miss back-to-back World Cups for the first time since their 1994 debut if they didn’t win tonight.
The stakes for the Benin Republic are just as high. With 17 points, Gernot Rohr’s team might earn a spot in their first-ever World Cup with a victory in Uyo. If South Africa loses their points, even a draw could be sufficient.
