Pinnick Urges Super Eagles to Translate Club Success into World Cup Qualifiers

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Former Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) President, Amaju Pinnick, has urged the Super Eagles to bring the same dedication and professionalism they show in their European clubs to the national team as Nigeria works towards qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

In an interview with ARISE News ahead of the qualifier against Lesotho on Friday, Pinnick expressed confidence that the team can secure a World Cup spot if they remain focused, disciplined, and united. He encouraged players to demonstrate heightened commitment when wearing the national colors.

“The players need to be patriotic both on and off the pitch. They should give their best—just as they do for their clubs,” Pinnick said. “It’s all about motivating them and boosting national morale.”

Pinnick, who is now the Deputy Chairperson of FIFA’s Men’s National Teams Competitions Committee, mentioned that he keeps in regular contact with the Super Eagles players to inspire them. “I always tell them that the captain acts as a coach on the pitch. It’s crucial that we qualify, so I stay in touch,” he added.

Having previously led Nigeria to the 2018 World Cup in Russia, Pinnick is optimistic about the current team’s chances. “If we beat Lesotho tomorrow and then win against Benin at home, we can still turn things around,” he stated.

Under coach Eric Chelle, the Super Eagles will play against Lesotho on Friday at 5 p.m.