Former Super Eagles goalkeeper, Idah Peterside has named the two games that cost Nigeria an automatic ticket to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Recall that Nigeria failed to secure an automatic ticket for next year’s World Cup in Group C.

The Super Eagles finished in second position behind leaders South Africa, who secured the automatic ticket.

As a result, Eric Chelle’s side then qualified for the playoffs and will face Gabon in November.

“Benin were topping the group and we beat them soundly,” Peterside told Soccer Beat.

“Imagine if Nigeria had taken this form against Benin earlier in the qualifiers.

“Two games cost Nigeria automatic qualification, Zimbabwe and Lesotho. We played draw, you can’t draw with Lesotho and Zimbabwe in Uyo, Nigeria,” he said.