Some Nigerian football enthusiasts have urged the Super Eagles to remain focused and disciplined as World Cup qualifying intensifies, following FIFA’s sanction against the South African Football Association (SAFA).
FIFA found SAFA guilty of breaching player eligibility rules in the Bongokuhle Mokoena case, a decision that altered the Group C standings and reignited Nigeria’s qualification chances.
Football enthusiast Izegagbe Iremi described the ruling as a reminder that football is governed by strict regulations, not just battles fought on the pitch. “The Eagles must take full responsibility and fight to the finish. There should be no complacency at this stage,” he told NAN on Tuesday.
He added that the sanction had handed Nigeria a lifeline that must not be wasted, stressing that every remaining match should be treated like a final. “This is not a time for celebration but for serious preparation. Every point will count in this race,” he said.
Former Nigerian international Azuka Izu also called on the players to seize the opportunity, urging them to show hunger and passion. “This is another chance for the Super Eagles to bounce back. They must take the fight to opponents and finish the job,” he said.
He warned, however, that while the reshuffled standings favour Nigeria, the Eagles must secure maximum points in their remaining fixtures and hope other results go their way.
NAN reports that the adjusted table leaves Nigeria with no margin for error in their bid for a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the USA, Mexico, and Canada.
