Ex-international Victor Ikpeba believes the Super Eagles can qualify through the CAF playoff route after finishing second in Group C.

Despite securing a remarkable 4-0 victory against Benin Republic in their last qualifier match, the resounding victory was not enough to secure automatic qualification ticket for Eric Chelle's side as South Africa progressed as Group C winners following their 3-0 victory over Rwanda.

Nigeria, however, qualified as one of the best second-placed teams and will now face Gabon in the semifinal playoff with the winner of that tie taking on either Cameroon or DR Congo in the final.

The mini playoff tournament will be held in Morocco next month.

Speaking on Super Sports' Monday Night Football, Ikpeba urged the Super Eagles to make good use of the lifeline handed to them via the playoffs to secure their ticket to the Mundial.

“We can qualify for the World Cup, it is another chance for them to play at the World Cup,” Ikpeba said on Monday Night Football on Supersport TV.

“They have a second lifeline, they have to grab it.”

WDN