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Former Nigeria international Mutiu Adepoju has urged interim Super Eagles coach Austine Eguavoen to prioritise inviting in-form players for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. This follows Nigeria’s recent 2-1 defeat to Rwanda in their final 2025 Africa Cup of Nations AFCON qualifier.
The Super Eagles currently sit in fifth position in Group C of the World Cup qualifiers, with only three points from four matches. They trail Rwanda, South Africa, and the Benin Republic, all on seven points, and fourth-placed Lesotho with five points. Nigeria’s next fixtures will see them face Rwanda away and Zimbabwe at home in March 2025.
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Adepoju, known as the "Headmaster" during his playing days, emphasised the importance of selecting players performing well for their clubs. "If players are doing very well at their clubs, I see no reason why they shouldn’t be called up to the Super Eagles," he stated, adding that integrating such players into the team could enhance their chances of qualification.
Editorial
Mutiu Adepoju’s call for including in-form players in the Super Eagles squad highlights a fundamental aspect of competitive football: form and performance. As Nigeria faces a precarious position in the World Cup qualifiers, a merit based selection strategy could reignite the team’s campaign and competition among players.
Eguavoen’s task is not just about identifying talent but also ensuring the squad blends cohesively to execute his game plan. Players like Tolu Arokodare, excelling at their clubs, could bring fresh energy and tactical options to the team. Balancing experience with the current form is critical to rebuilding confidence and securing vital points in the remaining fixtures.
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The Super Eagles must seize this moment to reassess their strategy, focusing on form, fitness, and tactical discipline. With the right approach, they can turn their fortunes around and reaffirm their status as one of Africa’s football powerhouses.
Did You Know?
Mutiu [Adepoju earned](https://www.footballinnigeria.com.ng/category/fan-zone/) the nickname "Headmaster" for his exceptional aerial abilities during his playing career.
[Nigeria](https://www.footballinnigeria.com.ng/match-previews-and-reviews/lookman-nets-20th-goal-as-atalanta-secure-champions-league-spot/) has qualified for the FIFA World Cup six times, making its debut in 1994.
The Super Eagles' current group position is one of their worst starts to a World Cup qualifying campaign.
Tolu Arokodare, mentioned by Adepoju, plays for KRC Genk in Belgium and has been in impressive form this season.
Austine Eguavoen previously served as Super Eagles head coach during the 2006 Africa Cup of Nations.