On October 20, 2025, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) canceled the Super Eagles’ planned friendlies against Venezuela and Colombia in the United States, set for November 14 in Houston and November 18 in New York.
The decision follows Nigeria’s qualification for the 2026 World Cup African playoffs after a 4-0 victory over Benin Republic on October 14.
The NFF is now focusing entirely on the playoffs in Morocco, scheduled for November 13–16.
An NFF spokesperson explained, “Our contract had a clause for this scenario. With playoff qualification secured, we’re skipping the friendlies to prepare for the World Cup.”
Ticket refunds for the canceled matches will be announced soon, ensuring fans are not left out of pocket.
Playoff Challenges Ahead
In Morocco, Nigeria, ranked 41st globally, faces Gabon in the playoff semifinals. As the highest-ranked team among the four contenders alongside Cameroon and DR Congo the Super Eagles are favored to advance.
The winner of Nigeria vs. Gabon will meet the Cameroon-DR Congo victor in the final, vying for Africa’s sole ticket to the intercontinental playoffs in Mexico in March 2026.
The Morocco playoffs also serve as early preparation for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). Nigeria, runners-up in 2023, will compete in Group C against Tanzania, Tunisia, and Uganda, starting December 23 in Fez. Coach Bruno Genesio sees the playoffs as a chance to build momentum for both competitions.
Strategic Shift
Canceling the US friendlies reflects Nigeria’s all-in approach to the World Cup, a stage they’ve missed since 2018. The Benin win, powered by Victor Osimhen’s hat-trick, secured their playoff spot, making the friendlies less critical.
“The World Cup is our priority now,” said NFF President Ibrahim Gusau. The decision frees up time for targeted training, ensuring the team is sharp for Gabon’s physical challenge.
Genesio welcomed the shift, noting the friendlies could have disrupted focus. “Every game must build toward Qatar,” he said.
The squad, blending European-based stars like Osimhen and Alex Iwobi with local talent, is poised to leverage its ranking advantage in Morocco.
Fan and Team Resolve
The cancellation disappointed some fans hoping to see the Eagles in the US, but most back the focus on qualification.
Social media buzzes with support, with #EaglesToWorldCup trending in Lagos. “We’re the best in the playoffs let’s prove it,” posted a fan. Osimhen echoed this, saying, “We’re ready to fight for that World Cup spot.”
The playoffs’ expanded 48-team format for 2026 offers hope, but Africa’s single slot is fiercely contested. Nigeria’s recent form four wins in six qualifiers fuels optimism. Success in Morocco could also boost morale for AFCON, where Nigeria aims to claim the title.
Road to 2026
With intensive training underway, the Super Eagles are honing their attack and defense balance. Gabon’s speed will test them, but a win sets up a winnable final. The NFF is arranging practice matches to maintain sharpness, replacing the canceled friendlies.
As Morocco looms, Nigeria carries national pride, aiming to soar back to the World Cup and cement their status as African football giants.
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