African football legend and former Chelsea striker Didier Drogba has voiced strong support for Nigeria’s Super Eagles, emphasizing that their presence at the 2026 FIFA World Cup is vital for the continent’s pride and global image.

In an exclusive interview with Sporty TV, the Ivorian icon described Nigeria as one of Africa’s most influential footballing nations, insisting that their qualification for the tournament “means a lot to the whole of Africa.”

> “It would be nice if they qualify because to have Nigeria in a World Cup is very important for Africa,” Drogba said. “But if they don’t qualify, the team that would be representing us, we will be proud to support.”

The Super Eagles narrowly missed out on automatic qualification, finishing second in Group C with 17 points — just one behind South Africa, who sealed top spot after a 3–0 win over Rwanda in Mbombela. Nigeria’s commanding 4–0 victory over Benin Republic in Uyo rekindled their hopes, setting up a CAF Play-off semi-final clash against Gabon on November 13. The winner will face either Cameroon or DR Congo for Africa’s sole intercontinental playoff slot in Mexico next March.

Drogba, who led Ivory Coast to multiple World Cup appearances, urged Nigerian fans to remain patient and supportive, reminding them of the Super Eagles’ strong showing at the 2023 AFCON, where they finished as runners-up to the Ivorians.

> “If Nigeria had won the AFCON, people wouldn’t be saying the team isn’t good. But that’s football,” he noted. “You supported them through the campaign, and then they lose one final — suddenly they’re bad? It’s always like that in Africa.”

Drawing comparisons to club football, Drogba remarked that fans often overlook the significance of coming close:

> “Finishing second is like Chelsea finishing second in the Premier League — it doesn’t count for some people. But it should.”

The two-time African Footballer of the Year praised the current generation of Nigerian stars, including Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman, calling them symbols of African excellence.

> “You have a team that can perform,” Drogba added. “You have stars like Osimhen and Lookman — players who bring pride to the continent. The challenge isn’t talent, it’s consistency and belief.”

With the CAF Play-offs approaching, Drogba’s message was clear: Africa needs its strongest sides — and Nigeria’s return to the World Cup stage would be a victory for the entire continent.