Cameroon legend Joseph-Antoine Bell believes Nigeria carry a slight advantage into Sunday’s crucial 2026 World Cup qualifying playoff against DR Congo in Rabat.
The former Saint-Étienne goalkeeper pointed to the Super Eagles’ superior firepower as the major factor that gives them an edge.
Bell highlights Nigeria’s attacking strength
Bell told Africa Foot that Nigeria’s frontline, led by Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman and Moses Simon, remains a decisive weapon.
“For me, Nigeria is a slight favourite,” he said. “This team has impressive attacking potential with Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman and Moses Simon. It exudes real power, and defensively, it is solid.”
No concerns over fatigue
Nigeria progressed to the final after a 4-1 extra-time win over Gabon on Thursday, but Bell dismissed any worries about tired legs.
“It won’t have any effect. The players have had time to recover,” he insisted.
Bell predicted a cagey match with limited scoring opportunities.
“I don’t know if there will be many goals, but I think the team that wins will do so with a narrow lead,” he said.
High stakes in race to 2026 FIFA World Cup
Sunday’s clash is critical for both nations’ hopes of reaching the World Cup. The winner advances to the intercontinental playoffs scheduled for March 2026 in Mexico.
Under FIFA’s revised format, top-ranked African teams enjoy seeding advantages, allowing them to bypass early hurdles in the playoff structure.
Bolivia and New Caledonia are the only confirmed nations so far. They await the inclusion of DR Congo or Nigeria, Iraq or the UAE, and two teams from CONCACAF as the final lineup begins to form.
