Dikko backs Super Eagles despite Zimbabwe draw, outlines June 2025 plans

• The Super Eagles will ramp up preparations for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers with a training camp and three friendly matches set for June 2025
• NSC Chairman Shehu Dikko confirmed the plan but remained silent on the identity of the Super Eagles’ opponents
• The upcoming matches in June will allow the coaching staff to refine strategies and strengthen the squad before the qualifiers resume in September

After an underwhelming end to the March qualifying games, Nigerian football authorities have wasted no time in preparing for the continuation of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. 

The National Sports Commission (NSC) has revealed plans for a training camp and three friendly matches during the June 2025 international window. This initiative is aimed at fine-tuning the squad before the main qualifiers in September.

NSC Chairman Shehu Dikko emphasised the importance of the upcoming friendlies, describing them as a crucial opportunity for the Super Eagles’ technical crew to restructure and strengthen the team. 

However, he remained tight-lipped about the potential opponents, fueling speculation about Nigeria’s fixtures,

“We are working on a training camp and three friendly matches in June 2025, which will allow the technical crew to reset, mould, and perfect the team in preparation for the continuation of the qualifiers,” Dikko stated.

Rumours have already begun circulating about Nigeria’s possible opponents. Russia had earlier announced an agreement to play against the Super Eagles in early June, though the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has yet to confirm or deny the claim. 

Additionally, reports have linked Nigeria with a friendly against long-time rival Ghana, but no official statement has been issued.

Further speculation suggests that Nigeria may participate in a four-team mini-tournament featuring Ghana, Jamaica, and England. However, the NFF has yet to provide clarity on this potential tournament.

Regardless of the final opponent lineup, the friendlies will serve as a key opportunity for Nigeria’s coaching staff to refine strategies and assess the squad’s strengths ahead of the decisive qualifiers.

Meanwhile, Dikko reassured fans that the Super Eagles remain in the race for a spot in the 2026 World Cup, despite a disappointing 1-1 draw against Zimbabwe in their last qualifier. The team conceded a late equaliser in Uyo, leaving them six points behind group leaders South Africa with just four matches left.

Dikko expressed his sympathy for the team, stating, 

“Football can be brutal. The @NGSuperEagles dominated for 90 minutes, created over 42 attacking plays, and had more than 10 clear chances, yet we ended up drawing.”

Rather than criticising the players, he praised their commitment, stating that their performance reflected determination and effort. 

Onigbinde urges Super Eagles coach Chelle to harness Nigeria’s talent for World Cup success

Previously, TheRadar reported that former national team coach Chief Adeboye Onigbinde has urged newly appointed Nigeria head coach Eric Chelle to effectively manage the country's vast talent pool as he takes on the challenge of leading the Super Eagles.

Despite this abundance of quality, Nigeria’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification campaign has been disappointing.