Joseph Yobo on Nigeria’s 2026 World Cup hopes: “It’s not over yet”

Joseph Yobo remains optimistic about the Super Eagles’ chances in their bid for the 2026 World Cup, despite Nigeria’s shaky start to the qualification campaign.

Speaking candidly in an interview with The Guardian, the former Super Eagles assistant coach acknowledged the uphill task ahead but highlighted the unpredictable nature of football.

READ MORE: Joseph Yobo talks Super Eagles leadership, coaching, 2026 World Cup

“It’s never over until the last game,” Yobo, who was played 101 times for Nigeria, remarked, reflecting on past experiences where Nigeria clawed back from difficult positions to qualify. He recalled the 2010 World Cup, where despite an injury he suffered, the team managed to scrape through, relying on favourable results from other teams.

While Yobo concedes that Nigeria’s fate isn’t entirely in their hands, he emphasised that victories in upcoming fixtures could shift the balance.

“It’s a marathon, and the pressure mounts on everyone. We just have to stay focused, win our matches, and hope that other results fall our way,” he said, expressing confidence in the team’s ability to rally.

The Super Eagles face stiff competition from teams like South Africa, but Yobo remains hopeful, urging the players to embrace the pressure and approach each match strategically.