NFF Under Fire for WCQ Scheduling Mistake That May Cost Super Eagles World Cup Ticket
- The Nigeria Football Federation is under fire for a scheduling blunder for the Super Eagles' matches
- Super Eagles will face Amavubi of Rwanda on Saturday in Uyo before facing South Africa on Tuesday
- Nigeria must win both games, particularly against South Africa, to retain hopes of qualifying for the World Cup
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The Nigeria Football Federation’s scheduling of the Super Eagles’ matchday seven of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier has not gone down well with some Nigerians.
Nigeria will play their first match against Rwanda on Saturday, September 6, before facing South Africa on September 9, with only two days between the games.
Source: Twitter
The Super Eagles are the only African teams that will play on Saturday, with Gabon playing as early as Wednesday, September 3, against Seychelles and having six days' rest before hosting Cote d'Ivoire on September 9.
Journalist criticises NFF for scheduling blunder
Nigeria Info FM journalist Adaeze Michael has lashed out at the NFF for what she described as a scheduling blunder which could cost the Super Eagles.
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The team will wrap up all activities at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium on Saturday around 8 pm local time and is expected to fly to South Africa early on Sunday, which is about a 6-8-hour flight.
They will have only two days to rest and recover before playing South Africa, which plays Lesotho on Friday and are not travelling as their opponents play their home games in South Africa.
Fans had different reactions to her takes, with many not seeing an issue with the scheduling.
@Tornado wrote:
“In my understanding, there is a direct flight from SA to Nigeria, so I don't see any problem.”
@Sakzin99 wrote:
“Fair comment, chances are they will fly out on Sunday to RSA... have training session Monday and play Tuesday.”
@Cyruns wrote:
“It makes no difference, madam. That doesn't stop them from winning.”
Eric Chelle's side must grind out the maximum six points to keep their hopes of qualifying for the World Cup to be played in the USA, Canada and Mexico alive.
The Super Eagles sit in fourth place in Group C with seven points from six matches, behind Rwanda and Benin Republic, who have eight points and South Africa with 13 points.
A win in both matches could see Nigeria sit joint top of the table with South Africa, if the results in the Rwanda and Benin Republic games favour the Eagles.
As noted by the NFF, the entire group is still waiting for FIFA's verdict on the possible three-point deduction after South fielded the ineligible Teboho Mokoena against Lesotho on matchday five.
Source: Twitter
This will play to Nigeria's advantage if the world football governing body hits the South Africans with a deduction for the costly blunder.
According to the Guardian, NFF announced ticket prices for the 30,000-capacity stadium. ₦1,000 for general admission and ₦3,000 for VIPs.
Akwa-Ibom state governor Pastor Umo Eno paid for the tickets in March, allowing free access to the stadium to cheer the Super Eagles during the 1-1 draw against Zimbabwe.
Ekong sends message to Nigerians
Legit.ng reported that Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong sent a message to Nigerians ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier matches.
Ekong urged Nigerians to keep supporting and praying for the team, while he warned his teammates to remain focused and avoid complacency.
Source: Legit.ng
