National Teams
2026 World Cup Qualifier: Finidi George optimistic of turnaround despite fading hopes
By Saheed Afolabi
Nigeria head coach, Finidi George, remains confident in the Super Eagles’ ability to win matches despite their poor start in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
Benin Republic handed Nigeria a surprising 2-1 defeat in Abidjan, marking the Super Eagles’ first loss in the qualifiers.
Reacting to the unexpected result, Finidi emphasized that there is no secret formula to winning matches, attributing the team’s lackluster performance to a need for greater commitment.
“There’s no special formula to win. We have to see how the players will start a new season and see how we can get the best out of them,” Finidi said at the post-match press conference.
“Everybody must be committed, and I believe with commitment, we will win games. I believe we are going to win games, and if we can win games, the battle will still be there.”
Finidi urged Nigerians not to lose faith in the team despite the setback.
“We can’t throw in the towel because we’ve had only three points. We have to find a way to get these players back in a way for them to perform,” he added.
The Super Eagles’ coach is calling for renewed effort and focus as the team prepares for their remaining qualifiers, stressing the importance of commitment and perseverance to turn their campaign around.
