Ivorian football legend Didier Drogba has stressed the importance of Nigeria qualifying for the 2026 World Cup, describing the Super Eagles as one of Africa’s most influential teams, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.
Following a sluggish start to their qualifying campaign, Nigeria narrowly missed out on topping Group C, finishing second with 17 points — just one behind South Africa, who sealed the automatic ticket with a 3-0 win over Rwanda in their final group game at the Mbombela Stadium.
The Super Eagles, however, showed resilience in their last qualifier against Benin Republic in Uyo on Tuesday, recording a dominant 4-0 victory that reignited their hopes of reaching the Mundial after an inconsistent start to the campaign.
Eric Chelle’s men will now face Gabon in the semi-final on November 13, with victory setting up a decisive clash against the winner between Cameroon and DR Congo for Africa’s sole slot in the intercontinental playoffs billed for Mexico in March 2026.
Speaking in an interview with Sporty TV, Drogba urged Nigerians to be patient with the Eagles, emphasising that having the three-time African champions at the World Cup is vital for the continent and for global football.
“It would be nice if they qualify because to have Nigeria in a World Cup is very important for Africa. But if they don’t qualify, the team that would be representing us, we will be proud to support.”
The Chelsea legend also defended the Eagles following several criticisms.
“You know, if Nigeria had won the African Cup of Nations, you wouldn’t even be saying that. But that’s football, you know, it doesn’t mean that your team is not good. They were in the final. You were supporting them all through the campaign and then all of a sudden they lose, then finish!” Drogba said.
“They’re so bad, they criticise them from right to left, and it’s always like that in Africa. You finish 2nd, it’s like Chelsea finishing 2nd in the Premier League. Like it doesn’t count.”
Drogba stressed that reaching the AFCON final is no small achievement, insisting that the current generation of Nigerian players deserves praise, not criticism.
“That’s the level of expectation because you have won before. So I think the team is good. You have Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman — they won the last two Ballon d’Or. I mean, you have a team that can perform, but then you have opposition. You think the other team, because it’s Nigeria, they’re gonna sit like this?”
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