Alex Iwobi has expressed that Nigeria’s quest for qualification to the 2026 FIFA World Cup is “rejuvenated” after a challenging start, where the Super Eagles managed only three points from their initial four qualifiers.

Their campaign, marked by draws against Lesotho and Zimbabwe, multiple coaching changes, and injuries affecting key striker Victor Osimhen, saw a turnaround following a last-minute goal in their final group match against Benin.

Frank Onyeka’s late strike delivered a 4-0 win, enabling them to qualify for the African play-offs by goal difference, finishing as runners-up in Group C.

Next, Nigeria faces the challenge of overcoming Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang when they go head-to-head with Gabon in their semi-final play-off on Thursday (16:00 GMT) in Morocco.

“He may be getting older, but you wouldn’t notice. He continues to play like a young star,” Iwobi mentioned to BBC Sport Africa regarding the Gabonese captain.

“Figuring out how to contain him is a puzzle for us.”

After finishing second to South Africa in Group C, which would have clinched automatic qualification for the upcoming World Cup in Canada, Mexico, and the United States, Nigeria now must navigate a tougher road to the finals.

To advance, they need to defeat Gabon and then win against the victor of Thursday’s other playoff match between Cameroon and DR Congo (19:00 GMT) to reach an intercontinental qualifying round scheduled for March.

If they progress, their global ranking will allow them to play against a team from Asia, Oceania, South America, or the Concacaf region.

The successful team will earn a spot in the expanded 48-team tournament.

Having missed the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, Iwobi is eager to reclaim a spot on football’s grandest platform.

“Our chance to qualify for the World Cup is very much alive, and the confidence within the team is high,” stated the 29-year-old.

“Having played in one (Russia 2018), I aspire to participate in another.”

“It will be a tough journey ahead, with Gabon coming first, and I’m certain Aubameyang is also seeking a spot at the World Cup.”

Eric Chelle has been pivotal in revitalizing Nigeria’s World Cup ambitions. The Malian became the first non-Nigerian African to coach the Super Eagles upon his appointment in January.

Remaining unbeaten across six competitive matches, with four victories and two draws, Iwobi commends the 48-year-old for fostering a positive environment within the team.

“Our coach continually encourages us that we can overcome every challenge,” explained the Fulham player.

“He is an outstanding individual. We regard him less as a manager and more like an elder brother. He has fostered a brotherhood within the team.”

“You can see his passion on the sidelines. He fights for us and that inspires us to perform not just for Nigeria but also for him.”

As the upcoming match against Gabon draws near, Iwobi has a message for fans disappointed by the team’s earlier qualifying performances.

“We started on a rough note,” he acknowledged candidly.

“However, fans should know we share the same goal.”

“I get their disappointment, as we are equally frustrated by not securing easier wins or defeating teams we expected to beat.”

“We believe that if we all give our best effort, we have the capability to triumph over any opponent.”

“Now we must turn our words into action.”

*Alex Iwobi shared these insights with BBC Sport Africa during the Best of Africa Awards.