As the Africa Cup of Nations draws closer, Super Eagles midfielder Alex Iwobi has insisted that Nigeria’s priority remains the FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
Iwobi noted that while the AFCON is a prestigious competition the team is looking forward to, their current objective is to secure qualification for the 2026 World Cup.
“I can only talk for myself, but we are still here for one task, and that is to play the World Cup qualifiers. That is the main thing now, one at a time. That is the objective right now,” Iwobi said.
“I am sure everyone is looking forward to the AFCON, but we are here for one goal, and that is to go to the World Cup. So, we will focus on that for now.”
Nigeria, who missed out on the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, are determined to avoid a repeat setback in the current campaign.
The disappointment of failing to qualify three years ago remains fresh, and both players and officials are aware of the importance of getting it right this time.
Nigeria defeated Rwanda on Saturday with a lone goal from Wolves’ new signing, Tolu Arokodare in Uyo to keep their World Cup hopes alive.
Also read: South Africa v Nigeria: We Must Be More Clinical in Front of Goal – Chelle
The victory provided a timely boost for the squad, which has been under pressure to deliver consistent results.
Next the Super Eagles face Bafana Bafana on Tuesday at the Free State Stadium in Bloemfontein in a game Nigeria cannot afford to lose.
Following their clash with South Africa, the Super Eagles will complete their qualification fixtures in October against Lesotho and Benin Republic.
The team’s attention will then turn to the Africa Cup of Nations, which is scheduled to commence in December.
