Nigeria struggles as Sudan fights for world cup

DDM News

Nigeria’s Super Eagles and Sudan’s national team face crucial matches in the African qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

According to Diaspora digital media (DDM) reports, both teams are in the spotlight as they prepare for two decisive matchdays in their respective groups.

Nigeria, once favored to lead Group C, currently sits in fifth place out of six teams in the standings.

The Super Eagles boast African stars Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman but have struggled in their qualification campaign.

They started with draws against Lesotho, Zimbabwe, and South Africa before suffering a shocking defeat to Benin.

Since finishing as runners-up in the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations, Nigeria has had three different coaches.

Finidi George and Augustine Eguavoen both had brief stints before Eric Chelle was appointed as head coach.

Chelle, previously dismissed by Mali after a poor start, admits he faces a “huge challenge” with Nigeria.

His first test comes against Rwanda away and Zimbabwe at home in this international window.

Despite Osimhen and Lookman’s attacking quality, Nigeria’s struggles go beyond goal-scoring issues.

Defensive lapses and inconsistent tactics have made qualification for the World Cup increasingly difficult.

Meanwhile, Sudan, ranked fifth in Group B, surprisingly leads the group ahead of their match against Senegal.

The game will take place in Libya due to Sudan’s ongoing civil war, which has displaced millions.

Sudan’s Ghanaian coach, Kwesi Appiah, has urged his players to believe they can match Senegal’s quality.

Senegal, three-time World Cup qualifiers, will be without injured Chelsea forward Nicolas Jackson.

However, they still have two-time African Footballer of the Year Sadio Mane in their squad.

Key African World Cup Qualifiers to Watch

Ethiopia vs. Egypt

Ethiopia faces a difficult challenge against Egypt, the leaders of Group A.

Egyptian forwards Mohamed Salah and Mahmoud Trezeguet are the tournament’s top scorers with five goals each.

Manchester City’s new signing, Omar Marmoush, adds more attacking power to Egypt’s already dangerous squad.

Ethiopia, ranked 113 places below Egypt, will play their home match in Morocco.

They lack a FIFA-approved stadium, forcing them to host matches in a neutral country.

Containing Egypt’s powerful attack will be a major challenge for Ethiopia’s defense.

Sudan vs. Senegal

Sudan leads Group B by two points and faces Senegal in a crucial match.

Coach Kwesi Appiah has inspired his players by reminding them of their country’s struggles.

Senegal remains a strong team despite missing Nicolas Jackson due to injury.

Sadio Mane’s experience will be crucial as Senegal tries to reclaim the top spot.

This match in Benghazi will be a test of Sudan’s resilience and determination.

Rwanda vs. Nigeria

Despite Nigeria’s higher ranking, Rwanda has previously caused trouble for the Super Eagles.

In the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, Rwanda held Nigeria to a 0-0 draw in Kigali.

They later shocked Nigeria with a 2-1 victory in Uyo, exposing defensive weaknesses.

Nigeria’s new coach, Eric Chelle, must avoid another embarrassing setback.

Rwanda also has a new coach, Adel Amrouche, replacing German tactician Torsten Spittler.

A win is essential for Nigeria to revive their World Cup qualification hopes.

Gambia vs. Kenya

Kenya’s new coach, Benni McCarthy, is determined to lead his team to the World Cup.

McCarthy, a former South African international, also worked with Manchester United’s coaching staff.

He believes Kenya has the potential to surprise stronger teams in the group.

Ivory Coast is favored to win Group F, making Kenya’s next matches crucial.

They must defeat Gambia and Gabon to remain in contention for a playoff spot.

McCarthy’s first game as Kenya coach will be closely watched by fans and analysts.

Ghana vs. Chad

Ghana’s coach, Otto Addo, faces pressure after recent disappointing performances.

Ghana failed to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and lost to Comoros in World Cup qualifying.

Chad, sitting at the bottom of Group I, has scored only once in the campaign.

Internal issues have weakened Chad, with some players boycotting due to “poor organization.”

Their coach, Kevin Nicaise, resigned and was replaced by Qatari Tahir Zakaria Gardia.

Ghana, strengthened by Premier League stars Thomas Partey, Jordan Ayew, and Antoine Semenyo, should secure an easy win

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