Former Super Eagles boss, Augustine Eguavoen, has thrown his weight behind Nigeria’s 2026 FIFA World Cup ambitions despite the uphill task ahead.

Now in his fourth stint with the national team, the 59-year-old tactician briefly returned to steer the Super Eagles to qualification for the 2025 AFCON after Finidi George stepped down. Although Eric Chelle has since taken over as head coach, Eguavoen remains confident that the dream of playing in North America is still alive.

“It’s easier said than done, but we have the potential and the personnel,” Eguavoen told Sportsblog247.com. “It’s a tight rope, but everything is possible. With the boys we have now and every Nigerian coming together, it is doable. I’m 100% sure.”

With Nigeria currently sitting fourth in Group C of the CAF World Cup qualifiers, the Super Eagles must win all remaining matches to stand a chance. Still, Eguavoen believes the team’s mindset must be laser-focused.

“One game at a time. Treat every game like a final,” he said.

The former Super Eagles captain also praised Eric Chelle’s early impact on the team. “Very good performance. I hope the record continues. There shouldn’t be any distractions. Let him do what he feels is right — give him control.”

On the women’s front, Eguavoen expressed optimism ahead of the Super Falcons’ campaign at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), kicking off July 5 in Morocco.

“We’re the best in Africa, one of the best in the world,” Eguavoen declared. “I was in Morocco last time when they finished fourth — that’s behind us now. From the World Cup to the Olympics, this team has made progress. They can go all the way.”

The Super Falcons will fine-tune preparations this evening with a crucial friendly against Portugal, as they aim to reclaim their continental crown in Morocco.