Victor Osimhen has declared that Nigeria’s qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup is “non-negotiable” as the Super Eagles prepare to face DR Congo in Sunday’s decisive playoff final.

The Galatasaray striker, who scored twice in Nigeria’s 4–1 extra-time victory over Gabon in the semi-final, spoke with conviction about the team’s mindset heading into the clash. “We can get it done,” Osimhen told ESPN. “We have the squad to actualize this dream of going to the World Cup because everyone wants to go to the World Cup.”

Nigeria missed out on the last edition of the tournament in Qatar, a painful setback that continues to shape the determination of the current squad. Under head coach Eric Chelle, the Super Eagles have fought their way through the playoff stages after failing to secure an automatic ticket. Their victory over Gabon in Rabat has now set up a high-stakes showdown against DR Congo, who themselves edged Cameroon 1–0 in their semi-final.

Osimhen’s influence has been central to Nigeria’s campaign. The 2023 African Player of the Year has consistently delivered in front of goal, including a hat-trick against Benin Republic last month that helped Nigeria squeeze into the playoffs. His leadership will be even more crucial on Sunday, especially with Wilfred Ndidi suspended due to card accumulation, leaving Osimhen to captain the side.

The stakes could not be higher. The winner of the Nigeria–DR Congo clash will advance to the six-nation intercontinental tournament in Mexico next March, where only two teams will ultimately secure tickets to the expanded 48-team World Cup hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

For Osimhen, the mission is clear: restore Nigeria’s place on football’s biggest stage. His words reflect both urgency and belief, a rallying cry to teammates and fans alike. As he put it, “Everyone wants to go to the World Cup.”