Ivorian football legend Didier Drogba has emphasized the crucial importance of Nigeria qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, stating that Africa needs strong representatives like the Super Eagles on the global stage.

In an interview with Sporty TV, Drogba described Nigeria as one of Africa’s most influential football nations, noting that their presence at the World Cup “means a lot” to the entire continent.

Nigeria finished second in their qualifying group with 17 points, just one point behind group winners South Africa, who secured the only direct qualification spot after a 3-0 victory over Rwanda in their final match.

Despite earlier setbacks, the Super Eagles ended their campaign strongly with a 4-0 win over Benin Republic, keeping their World Cup hopes alive. They now face Gabon in the semi-finals of the African playoffs on November 13, with the winner advancing to face either Cameroon or DR Congo for Africa’s single intercontinental playoff slot in March 2026.

Drogba called for patience from Nigerian fans, acknowledging that while the team has faced criticism, they remain one of Africa’s strongest squads. “It would be nice if they qualify because having Nigeria in a World Cup is very important for Africa,” Drogba stated.

He also defended the Super Eagles’ recent performances, noting that reaching the 2023 AFCON final was itself a significant achievement despite the eventual loss to Ivory Coast. “If Nigeria had won the African Cup of Nations, you wouldn’t be criticizing them now. That’s just how football works sometimes,” he said.

Drawing parallels with club football, the two-time African Footballer of the Year added: “Finishing second is still an achievement – it’s like Chelsea finishing second in the Premier League. It doesn’t mean the team isn’t good.”

Drogba praised current Super Eagles stars like Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman, emphasizing that they deserve recognition rather than criticism. “You have a team that can perform. But you also have strong opposition. That’s the nature of competition.”

The Ivorian icon concluded that Africa needs its best teams like Nigeria competing at the highest level, stating that the continent’s representation matters for global football credibility and development.