‘Nigeria is second from bottom’ – Rival coach reflects on unpredictability in 2026 World Cup Qualifiers
Zimbabwe head coach Michael Nees has spoken about the unpredictable nature of Group C in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, pointing out Nigeria’s surprising struggles in the group.
As the qualifiers resume in March, Nigeria are playing catch-up, having earned just three points from four matches. They trail group leaders Rwanda by four points.
Nigeria recently changed their manager, appointing Malian coach Eric Chelle to replace George Finidi, who resigned after a poor run of results, including a 2-1 loss to Benin’s Cheetahs.
“The team started the World Cup journey about a year and a half ago. It was interrupted by the AFCON qualification, as you know,” Nees said, according to The Herald. “And when you look at the situation in the World Cup group, our situation is not perfect.”
Nees also acknowledged Zimbabwe’s own struggles, as they sit last in the group with two points and a -4 goal difference. However, he found Nigeria’s position, just above them with three points, equally surprising.
“It’s a very bizarre situation when you look at it, that a team like Nigeria is second from the bottom while Rwanda is leading. But it shows how competitive football is,” he said.
The coach also stressed that success requires more than just talent. “If you don’t bring the right psychological profile, the right mental approach, the right attitude, the right tactical approach, and organizational support… if you don’t get everything right, even a team like Nigeria can simply sit almost at the bottom of the group while others are leading.”
After a tough start, Nigeria will look to get their World Cup qualifying campaign back on track when they face Rwanda and Zimbabwe in March.
