Alex Iwobi adopts ‘war mentality’ for Nigeria’s World Cup Qualification Push

By Monsurah Olatunji

Fulham forward Alex Iwobi remains optimistic about Nigeria’s chances of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, despite the team’s rocky start to the qualifiers. Currently in fifth place in Group C after four matches, Nigeria faces a daunting task against group leaders Rwanda in Kigali when international football resumes in March.

The Super Eagles, who last appeared in the World Cup in 2018, have yet to secure a win in Group C, collecting just three points from four matches. However, Iwobi is determined to lead the charge as they fight for a spot in the tournament.

“We know it’s not going to be easy because every team in Africa wants to qualify. Everyone wants to experience the World Cup; it’s the best and biggest competition in the world,” Iwobi told BBC. “It’s like going to war every game, but we’ll put up a fight and try and see what we can do. We’re hungry and motivated.”

The 27-year-old midfielder also addressed the managerial instability that has affected the team in recent months. Despite the changes, Iwobi emphasized that the players must take responsibility for the team’s performance, refusing to use the managerial shifts as an excuse.

“We’ll never use it as an excuse because we can only hold ourselves accountable as players. No matter what manager comes into play, it’s down to us as players to give 100%,” Iwobi concluded.