Mali Coach Tom Saintfiet Backs Super Eagles for 2026 World Cup Qualification
Mali’s head coach, Tom Saintfiet, says it would be a big surprise if Nigeria’s Super Eagles fail to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. He described Nigeria as the “best team in Africa” and believes they have the talent to succeed on the world stage.
Speaking in an interview with AySuga Naija Lifestyle on YouTube, Saintfiet praised the quality and depth of Nigeria’s squad. He pointed out that the Super Eagles have top players in every position—attack, midfield, defence, and goalkeeping.
“It will be sad if the strongest team in Africa don’t qualify,” Saintfiet said. “The Super Eagles are, not only now but in the last three or four years, the best team in Africa.”
He added that Nigeria has been one of the strongest teams on the continent in recent years, even though they have not won a major trophy since lifting the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in 2013 under Stephen Keshi.
Despite some recent challenges, Saintfiet is confident Nigeria will make it to the 2026 World Cup. He also believes they are among the favourites to win the next AFCON, given the quality of players in their team.
