Super Eagles midfielder Alex Iwobi has assured Nigerians that the team will give everything on the pitch when they face Rwanda and South Africa in their crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches.
Nigeria will host Rwanda on Saturday, September 6, at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo before travelling to Bloemfontein to take on South Africa on Monday, September 9.
Speaking with Bold Sports ahead of the decisive games, Iwobi urged fans to expect total commitment from the team: “Expect hard work, a fight, players that are willing to fight for their country.”
Despite Nigeria’s 2-0 win over Rwanda in Kigali in the reverse fixture, Iwobi insists the team won’t take their opponents lightly, stressing the need for proper preparation.
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“I wouldn’t say that’s an advantage because they could use that as trying to get revenge,” he said. “But we’ll analyse the game, analyse their performance and players, and hopefully we prepare well to try and get a result against them.”
Looking ahead to the clash with group leaders South Africa, Iwobi admitted it will be a difficult contest but remains confident in the Super Eagles’ ability to compete.
“We know it’s gonna be a difficult game,” he said. “South Africa have a lot of quality players and they work well as a team. But we are not going to be afraid, we’re gonna give them a good fight. We’re trying to get the results to go to the World Cup so hopefully we can achieve that.”
The 29-year-old also expressed excitement over Samuel Chukwueze’s deadline-day loan move from AC Milan to Fulham, saying the winger’s arrival will boost the squad.
“Of course we’re excited. Not just the Nigerians but the Fulham community,” Iwobi said. “We know the sort of quality he has. As a brother, I’m gonna make sure I can give him the license and the freedom to enjoy his football and give him the confidence he needs. We’re all excited and looking forward to having him.”
Iwobi, who recorded nine goals and six assists last season — his best-ever league campaign — also spoke about his personal development and ambitions for the new season.
“The aim is always to improve so hopefully this season will be better than last season,” he said. “I think it’s something that has come with age. I focus on myself and not just the outside noise. The older I’ve got, the more responsibility I’ve been taking on the pitch, so I’ll put it down to maturity.”
Nigeria currently sit fourth in Group C with seven points, trailing South Africa, Rwanda, and Benin who sit first, second and third respectively. With only the group winner securing automatic qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, victories against Rwanda and South Africa are crucial to keeping the Super Eagles’ hopes alive.
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