Special Eagles Aim for World Cup Semifinals in Mexico

The President of the Nigeria Amputee Football Federation, Opukiri Jones Ere, has expressed confidence in the readiness of the Special Eagles ahead of the 2026 Amputee Football World Cup in Mexico. Ere stated that the team has spent two months in camp, a significant advantage in improving the players' understanding, teamwork, and confidence. This extended preparation period is uncommon in Nigerian football, allowing the players to develop a strong bond and understanding on the pitch.

Ere highlighted the team's encouraging performances in friendly matches against able-bodied players, including a 2-0 victory in their third match last Friday. The results reflect the team's growing attacking creativity and tactical development as preparations intensify. The squad features six professional amputee footballers based in Turkey, alongside home-based players, providing a combination of international exposure and domestic experience.

Ere appreciated the support of the National Sports Commission (NSC) and assured Nigerians that the players remain determined to overcome challenges and deliver an impressive performance at the World Cup. The team's target is to reach the semi-finals or final, making Nigeria proud and returning home with a fair share of success. Ere emphasized that the players are special people representing the country through amputee football, refusing to give up due to their physical conditions.

Head coach of the Special Eagles, Gbenga Dosunmu, expressed satisfaction with the team's preparations, describing the two-month camping program as unprecedented in the history of amputee football in Nigeria. Dosunmu stated that the players are highly motivated and focused on making a strong impression at the tournament, with reaching the semi-finals as their immediate target.

Nigeria has been drawn in a challenging group alongside Turkey, Spain, and Egypt for the 2026 Amputee Football World Cup in Mexico. Despite acknowledging the quality of their group opponents, Dosunmu expressed confidence in his players' ability to rise to the occasion. He pointed to the presence of six Nigerian professionals playing amputee football in Turkey as a major boost to the squad's strength and experience.

Dosunmu revealed that the team has prepared to face their opponents, including Spain and Egypt, whom they have played before. The coach is determined to take all three points from Egypt and make a strong impression against Spain. With the team's growing confidence and experience, they aim to make a lasting impact at the World Cup.

The Special Eagles' journey to the World Cup semifinals will require determination and skill, but with their rigorous preparations and growing team spirit, they are poised to make Nigeria proud. The team's success will also serve as an inspiration to Nigerians and amputee footballers around the world, showcasing the potential of athletes with physical disabilities to excel in sports.

Key points

• The Special Eagles have spent two months in camp, a significant advantage in improving their understanding, teamwork, and confidence.
• The team features six professional amputee footballers based in Turkey, alongside home-based players, providing a combination of international exposure and domestic experience.
• The team's target is to reach the semi-finals or final of the 2026 Amputee Football World Cup in Mexico.