Super Eagles’ Planned Friendlies Against Venezuela, Colombia Likely Off After World Cup Playoff Qualification

Nigeria’s qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup playoffs may have come at a price — the likely cancellation of their much-anticipated international friendlies against Venezuela and Colombia.

The Super Eagles, led by Éric Chelle, sealed their place in the playoffs after a resounding 4–0 victory over Benin Republic on Tuesday night, a result that reignited national pride and hope for World Cup qualification.

Originally, Nigeria was scheduled to play Venezuela on November 14 and Colombia four days later, as part of preparations to test the squad’s depth and tactical adaptability. However, those matches now appear unlikely to proceed as planned, with CAF scheduling the World Cup playoff semi-final clash against Gabon for November 13 — just a day before the first friendly.

Should the Super Eagles defeat Gabon, they will then advance to face the winner of Cameroon vs DR Congo in the playoff final.

🦅 Opinion: A Smart Trade-Off — But Timing Raises Concerns

While the cancellation of the friendlies might disappoint fans, it’s a necessary sacrifice in pursuit of a much greater goal — a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The playoffs represent a high-stakes opportunity that requires full focus, fitness, and cohesion.

That said, there’s a valid concern about match rhythm and preparation. Friendlies against quality South American opponents like Venezuela and Colombia would have provided invaluable tactical exposure and helped the players adapt to different styles of play — something often missing from African qualifiers.

Still, Éric Chelle and his team now have a single, clear mission: qualification. After the near-miss and tense finish to the group stage, this is no time for distractions. What Nigeria needs most is a focused camp, injury-free players, and a unified mindset heading into Morocco.

If the Super Eagles can carry the momentum from their emphatic Benin win into November’s playoff, then missing a couple of friendlies will be a small price to pay for a ticket to North America 2026.