With the Super Eagles' hopes of reaching the 2026 World Cup still in doubt, a Nigerian icon has stressed the importance of qualification for players like Victor Osimhen Victor Osimhen’s presence at the FIFA World Cup is non-negotiable, according to AFCON 2013 winner Kenneth Omeruo. PAY ATTENTION: Stay updated with the Latest Soccer News in Nigeria from Pulse Sports The Super Eagles defender was adamant that Nigeria’s top striker must experience football’s biggest stage, especially after missing out on Qatar 2022. Omeruo stresses the importance of World Cup experience With Nigeria desperately chasing a World Cup ticket, Omeruo is urging his teammates to treat every remaining qualifier like a final. The defender, who played at the 2014 and 2018 World Cups, explained that only a handful of players in the current squad have felt the electrifying atmosphere of the tournament. Speaking with Brilla FM, the AFCON 2013 champion said, "Just a few players in the Super Eagles have been to the World Cup, so they understand how important it is. For a player like Victor Osimhen, he has to be at the World Cup. He needs to experience it." Osimhen was crucial in Nigeria’s 2-0 victory over Rwanda, scoring both goals to secure the Super Eagles’ first win in their qualification campaign and he will be expected to lead the charge once again when Nigeria faces Zimbabwe. Super Eagles face must-win clash against Zimbabwe The road to the 2026 FIFA World Cup has been a bumpy one for Nigeria. After a winless streak in their opening four qualifiers, the Super Eagles finally broke the curse with their victory over Rwanda. But with South Africa leading the group by four points, there is no room for error when they host Zimbabwe on Tuesday 25th of March. Nigeria and Zimbabwe will do battle at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo in what is being described as a must-win encounter. A victory would see the Super Eagles edge closer to the automatic qualification spot, while a slip-up could leave their World Cup hopes hanging by a thread. With Osimhen determined to make up for missing Qatar 2022, and the squad fired up by Omeruo’s rallying call, expect the Super Eagles to go all out for another crucial three points.