Iwobi: Why the Super Eagles Still Believe in World Cup Glory

As Nigeria stares down two critical World Cup qualifiers; against Rwanda in Uyo and South Africa away in Johannesburg, Alex Iwobi has given voice to the Super Eagles’ belief.

The Fulham midfielder, enjoying a strong run of form in the Premier League, insists that confidence in the camp remains unshaken despite the narrow margins left in the qualification race.

We believe in the World Cup

For Iwobi, the mindset is simple: belief or nothing.

“Of course, everyone… We believe that we’re going to go to the World Cup; otherwise, we wouldn’t be here.

“We’re going to try and do our best, so hopefully the fans can continue to believe in us as well.”

Nigeria’s World Cup hopes are hanging by a thread. With just seven points from six games, the Eagles sit fourth in Group C behind South Africa, Rwanda and Benin. Only the group winner advances directly to the 2026 finals, while the second-placed team may scrape into the playoffs. The stakes could not be higher.

Settling into Eric Chelle’s system

The 28-year-old has only worked briefly under new coach Eric Chelle, but already sees signs of progress.

“Yeah, I’ve played one camp so far and I’ve enjoyed the system. It allows me to express myself as a player a bit more.

“Of course, it still takes a lot of time for each player to adjust to the system, but any system that gets us to win is the main thing, and we trust the manager.

“So hopefully, once again, we can get the results in the next two games.”

Iwobi’s words echo Captain William Troost-Ekong’s insistence that Chelle’s methods have been well received. For Nigeria, the tactical clarity will need to translate into six points, or at least four, to keep qualification within reach.

A brother in London: Chukwueze joins Fulham

Away from the national team, Iwobi’s joy was evident when asked about Samuel Chukwueze’s deadline-day move to Fulham; a transfer that stunned many across Europe.

“Of course, as a brother, I’m really excited to work with him at the club level.

“We all know the ability he has, so me as a brother, I’ll give him the confidence to go and express himself, so I can’t wait to see him in Fulham colours.”

Source: Premium Times