Vincent Enyeama Super Eagles belief stays firm as he predicts World Cup qualification, while calling for support for retired players and their businesses

Vincent Enyeama Super Eagles optimism is clear, as the legendary goalkeeper insists Nigeria will overcome their shaky start and secure a ticket to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

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The Super Eagles sit fourth in Group C with seven points after six games, trailing South Africa (13 points), Rwanda, and Benin Republic. Despite the odds, Enyeama, who earned 101 caps before retiring in 2015, is backing his former team.

“My stand is that Nigeria will qualify. Nigeria always comes out from the fire. They will beat South Africa, they will beat Rwanda, and they are going to qualify,” he told our correspondent.

The qualification race could yet shift, with South Africa facing a possible points deduction for fielding an ineligible player against Lesotho.

Nigeria, meanwhile, still have crunch games against South Africa in Bloemfontein and Rwanda in Uyo before wrapping up with Lesotho and Benin Republic.

Enyeama stressed Nigeria’s pedigree: “When things look difficult, they find a way to come out stronger. I believe it will be the same this time.”

Beyond football, the 43-year-old appealed for institutional support for ex-players who now run businesses. As CEO of Vinpys Hotel in Uyo, where he employs nearly 100 staff, Enyeama argued that government patronage of ventures like his can keep retired players afloat.

“I am not asking them to give me money. I want them to patronise my hotel, send clients to eat in the restaurant, use the pool, and stay in the rooms. That way, I can keep empowering people,” he said.

He warned that many retired footballers collapse into poverty despite once earning well. “Even if you invest wisely, without patronage your business can collapse. No one can walk alone,” he added.

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Enyeama, who captained Nigeria to the 2013 AFCON title, maintains that support for retired players is vital to sustain their contributions to society and, for the present, that the Super Eagles’ fighting spirit will carry them to the World Cup.