Ivorian football legend Didier Drogba has highlighted the significance of Nigeria qualifying for the 2026 World Cup, calling the Super Eagles one of Africa’s most influential teams.

After a slow start in their qualifying campaign, Nigeria finished second in Group C with 17 points, narrowly missing out on the top spot to South Africa, who secured automatic qualification with a 3-0 win over Rwanda in their final group game at Mbombela Stadium.

Despite the rocky start, the Super Eagles bounced back in their last qualifier against Benin Republic in Uyo on Tuesday, recording an emphatic 4-0 win that revived their hopes of reaching the Mundial.

Eric Chelle’s squad will now face Gabon in the semi-final on November 13. A victory would set up a decisive clash against the winner of the Cameroon vs DR Congo match, with Africa’s sole intercontinental playoff slot for Mexico 2026 at stake.

In an interview with Sporty TV, Drogba urged Nigerians to remain patient with the team, stressing that having the three-time African champions at the World Cup is important both for the continent and for global football.

“It would be great if they qualify because having Nigeria in a World Cup is very important for Africa. But even if they don’t, the team representing us is still worthy of support,” Drogba said.

The Chelsea legend also defended the Eagles amid criticism following their AFCON campaign.

“You know, if Nigeria had won the African Cup of Nations, these criticisms wouldn’t even exist. That’s football — a loss doesn’t mean the team isn’t good. They reached the final, and people supported them throughout the tournament. Yet finishing second suddenly brings heavy criticism,” he added.

Drogba emphasized that reaching the AFCON final is a significant accomplishment and that the current generation of Nigerian players deserves recognition rather than reproach.

“That’s the expectation because of Nigeria’s history. The team is talented — with players like Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman, who have shined on the world stage. But you have opposition teams too; it’s never automatic just because it’s Nigeria,” he said.