‘We just have to win’ – Super Eagles star says Nigeria has no excuses ahead of World Cup qualifiers

As the Super Eagles gear up for back-to-back World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and South Africa, forward Moses Simon has made it clear that there is no room for excuses.

With Nigeria sitting fourth in Group C, the ex-Nantes winger insists that only wins will keep their World Cup dream alive.

Simon, one of the most senior figures in the current squad, stressed that every player must take ownership if Nigeria is to stand any chance of booking a ticket to the 2026 World Cup.

“We just have to win, there are no excuses. It doesn’t matter who scores, we don’t care, we just want to win,” he told ESPN.

He challenged his teammates to be bold and speak up if they believe they can deliver, saying unity and collective responsibility were the only way forward.

The 29-year-old admitted Nigeria’s inconsistent run has been shaped by multiple managerial changes and the absence of key players, but refused to let that serve as a crutch.

He also praised new coach Eric Chelle for instilling a fighting spirit reminiscent of past Super Eagles sides that played with pride and grit.

Nigeria’s biggest concern has been their lack of goals, with just seven scored in six matches, while defensive lapses have proved costly.

Simon urged the team to be more ruthless, pointing out that everyone – not just strikers – must contribute. “A defender can score, a midfielder can score, even a striker can score. We just need to do it collectively,” he said.

Despite the uphill battle, Simon remains confident that Nigeria can still qualify, citing high spirits within the camp.

He also cautioned against relying on administrative outcomes, such as possible sanctions against South Africa, urging focus on results on the pitch. “We have to get the job done because this is our opportunity and we can’t miss it,” he concluded