Despite the ominous signs of Nigeria missing a second straight World Cup after they failed to qualify for the 2022 edition in Qatar, former Nigeria midfielder Moses Kpakor, talking exclusively to Footy-Africa, has expressed optimism that the team will pick a ticket.
Kpakor, who won silver with Nigeria at the 1990 Africa Cup of Nations, says all hope is not lost despite Nigeria failing to pick three points against South Africa.
“To me the Eagles played well even though it was not good enough to get us the three points at stake which would have made our qualification chances brighter,” the former BCC Lions captain said exclusively to Footy-Africa.
“It was not the best of games but sometimes in Africa, you have to play with grit and power to be able to compete with other African countries. It is unfortunate where we have found ourselves at the moment with just two games to go, and it now looks like South Africa might pick the sole ticket from the group,” he added.
“However, I am still hopeful for the Eagles’ qualification for the World Cup. You know, I was born an optimist, so I still remain confident Nigeria will make it.” Kpakor, who played for Nigeria at the 1988 Seoul Olympics, concluded.
C. Bassss💚
— 🇳🇬 Super Eagles (@NGSuperEagles) September 9, 2025
Nigeria’s hopes of qualifying for the FIFA 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico took a huge hit after the Super Eagles played out a 1-1 draw with Bafana Bafana in Bloemfontein on Tuesday.
South Africa scored first in the 15th minutes when Nigerian captain William Troost-Ekong inadvertently put through his own net after a South African attack
But just before half-time, Fulham defender Calvin Bassey rose highest to meet a Fisayo Dele-Bashiru’s cross to head past Ronwen Williams to draw Nigeria level.
There will be no further goals in a game of limited chances, even though Tolu Arokodare could have won it for Nigeria late on but could not convert the chance he got.
With two games left of the qualification series, Nigeria is with 11 points from eight matches, six points behind group leaders South Africa.
