NFF President appeals for prayers as Super Eagles struggle in World Cup qualifiers
By Ohuakanwa Chibuzo
The President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Alhaji Ibrahim Gusau, has issued a heartfelt plea to spiritual leaders for divine intervention to aid the Super Eagles in their quest for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The appeal comes after a disappointing start to the qualifiers.
The Super Eagles are currently in a troubling fifth position in their group, with just three points from four matches. Their latest setback was a 2-1 defeat to Benin in Abidjan, exacerbating their precarious situation.
Addressing attendees at the Kano State Football Association (KSFA) awards night over the weekend, Gusau acknowledged the challenges facing the team. He expressed concern over Nigeria’s struggle to secure the sole World Cup ticket available in CAF qualifiers Group C.
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In a direct appeal to Sheikh Ibrahim Khaleel, the chairman of the Council of Ulamas in Kano State, Alhaji Ibrahim Gusau requested that the spiritual leader urgently rally his peers to pray for the national team.
Gusau stressed the critical need for spiritual support to overcome the difficulties faced by the Super Eagles.
“We are not resting on our oars in doing everything possible to get the team to fly Nigeria’s flag at the FIFA World Cup 2026,” Gusau stated.
“However, we need prayers to change our current situation.”
Nigeria’s position in Group C is concerning, with Rwanda leading the group on goal difference, both they and South Africa having seven points each from four matches. Benin Republic follows closely in third place with seven points, while Lesotho is fourth with five points. Zimbabwe remains at the bottom with two points.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup, the 23rd edition of the prestigious tournament, will be historic as it expands to 48 teams and is co-hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the USA for the first time.
As the Super Eagles strive to be part of this momentous event, the NFF looks to both practical measures and spiritual support to turn their fortunes around.