Nigeria’s past World Cup qualifiers performances (2025 comparison)

Nigeria has long been a powerhouse in African football, with a proud history of World Cup appearances and thrilling qualifying campaigns. However, the road to the 2026 FIFA World Cup has proven unusually turbulent for the Super Eagles. This article explores how Nigeria’s current qualifying performance compares to past campaigns, shedding light on the challenges, key players, and what it will take to revive their hopes.

Historical Qualifying Overview

1. Overall World Cup Reach
   Nigeria has qualified for six FIFA World Cups: 1994, 1998, 2002, 2010, 2014, and 2018. They reached the Round of 16 three times—in 1994, 1998, and 2014. However, they missed out on the 2006 and 2022 editions.

2. Qualification Success Rate
   In CAF World Cup qualifiers, Nigeria has historically been dominant, winning 62 matches—tied with Tunisia for the most wins in African qualifying history. They consistently finished at or near the top of their groups.

3. Recent Qualifying Campaigns

• 2018: Successfully qualified but exited in the group stage.

• 2022: Failed to qualify.

• 2026 (current): Struggling, with early setbacks affecting their position.

2025–26 Qualifiers: A Rocky Start

Nigeria's start to the 2025–26 qualifiers has been underwhelming. After five matchdays in CAF Group C, they have only 7 points from one win, four draws, and one loss. This places them fourth in the group, behind South Africa, Rwanda, and Benin.

Their only win so far was a 2-0 away victory against Rwanda, with both goals scored by star striker Victor Osimhen. Other results include a 2-1 loss to Benin and draws with Zimbabwe and others.

The qualifying format states that only group winners automatically qualify, while the top four runners-up enter a playoff for the remaining spots. Nigeria must climb the table quickly to stay in contention.

A particularly damaging blow was the home loss to Benin, followed by a disappointing draw against Zimbabwe—results that have left their hopes hanging by a thread.

Comparison with Past Cycles

The pattern shows Nigeria’s World Cup qualification history swings between dominant and disappointing. Years like 2006, 2022, and now 2026 show the fragility of success when consistency and management are lacking.

Role of Key Players & Coach

Victor Osimhen is the standout figure in the current campaign. His brace against Rwanda delivered Nigeria’s only win in the group so far. Analysts and fans alike view him as the player who could turn the tide.

Coaching instability has also been a concern. After Finidi George’s resignation, Augustine Eguavoen briefly stepped in, followed by the appointment of Eric Chelle. The frequent changes have likely disrupted cohesion and strategy.

What Lies Ahead for Nigeria

To stay in the running, Nigeria must either top Group C or finish among the top four second-placed teams. They still have six matches to play, including crucial home fixtures against Lesotho, Zimbabwe, and Benin.

Key upcoming fixtures:

• September: Rwanda (home), South Africa (away)

• October: Lesotho (away), Benin (home)

If Nigeria can build on their victory over Rwanda and maintain form, especially with Osimhen leading the charge, their playoff hopes remain alive. But any further stumbles may make recovery impossible.

Final Verdict

Nigeria’s 2025–26 World Cup qualifying journey stands in sharp contrast to their legacy of strong performances. While the past has seen them dominate CAF qualifiers, this campaign has exposed cracks. With six games left, the Super Eagles still have a path to redemption—but it will take leadership, form, and consistency to avoid another failed campaign.

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