Super Eagles coach, Eric Chelle, has assured Nigerians that his team will remain focused and determined ahead of Tuesday’s crucial 2026 World Cup qualifier against the Cheetahs of Benin Republic.

Chelle gave the assurance on Monday during a pre-match press conference at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

Nigeria currently sit third in Group C with 14 points, trailing Benin Republic (17 points) and South Africa (15 points).

Despite travel delays that affected the team’s arrival in Uyo, Chelle expressed optimism about his players’ readiness and commitment to securing victory.

 “We have to win this game tomorrow. I have to put my mind into tomorrow’s game; we must win and nothing more.

We want to go to the World Cup. I am very happy, very excited. Sometimes, we may be a little nervous,” Chelle said.

Team captain, William Troost-Ekong, also expressed confidence in the squad’s motivation and unity but admitted that qualification may not rest entirely in their hands.

 “There are players here who want to make names for themselves, and those who want their names to go down well in history.

So, they are fully prepared and will play to win.

Tomorrow may not be 100 per cent in our hands, but we will do our best to win the match,” he said.

Meanwhile, Benin Republic coach, Gernot Rohr, said his side were in high spirits and confident of sealing qualification for the World Cup.

“We are in a good position, and the players are ready to give everything to secure victory,” Rohr stated.