Super Eagles Cancel U.S. Friendlies to Focus on World Cup Playoffs in Morocco

Nigeria’s Super Eagles have officially called off their planned international friendly matches against Venezuela and Colombia, scheduled to take place in the United States next month. The decision comes as the team shifts full focus to the CAF World Cup playoffs, following their recent qualification.

The two friendlies were initially slated for November 14 at Houston’s Shell Energy Stadium and November 18 at Citi Field in New York. Announced by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) in September, the matches were intended to prepare the team for major competitions.

However, with Nigeria securing a playoff spot after defeating Benin Republic last week, the NFF has confirmed that the U.S. tour will no longer proceed. Instead, the Super Eagles will travel to Morocco, where the CAF playoff semifinalswill be held between November 13 and 16.

Nigeria is set to face Gabon in the semifinals. A win will take them into the final round of the playoffs, bringing them one step closer to qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, to be co-hosted by the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.

The NFF said the cancellation was necessary due to the tight scheduling and importance of the playoffs. Full squad announcements and preparation details are expected soon.

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