Former Nigeria midfielder John Mikel Obi has urged the Super Eagles to deliver the 2026 FIFA World Cup ticket.

Eric Chelle's side currently sits third in Group C with 11 points, three points adrift of group leaders the Benin Republic and South Africa, with two matches left to play.

The three-time African champions are gearing up to face the Crocodiles of Lesotho and the Squirrels of Benin Republic on Friday, October 10, and Tuesday, October 14, respectively.

Nigeria will face Lesotho at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium, Polokwane, South Africa, before hosting Benin at home four days later.

Speaking ahead of the crucial qualifiers, Mikel Obi stated that it would be a crime for Nigeria to miss two consecutive FIFA World Cup tournaments.

“It’s going to be a crime, an absolute crime, if Nigeria doesn’t make it to the World Cup again,” Mikel said on the ObiOne Podcast.

“We love our football too much. Our World Cup fate is in the players’ hands. They have to win these two games—no excuses.”

WDN