Super Eagles defender Gabriel Osho has expressed confidence that the team will secure a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The Nigerian national team, known for their talent and passion, have yet to win a match in Group C after four games, leaving them in fifth place in the standings.

The Super Eagles, a team that has long been regarded as one of the powerhouses in African football, have faced criticism for their performance so far.

However, Osho remains optimistic and determined to see the team rise above their challenges.

Speaking to Flashcore, he mentioned the squad’s potential and their focus on bouncing back stronger in upcoming matches.

“We need to concentrate on both the World Cup qualifiers and the Africa Cup of Nations,” Osho said.

Reflecting on their recent performances, he emphasized the team’s commitment to improvement.

“After the last competition, our objective is clear; progress and ultimate victory.

I believe we have the talent to achieve that.”

“Our team’s quality is arguably the best on the continent.

Now is the time to demonstrate that on the global stage,” he added, urging his teammates to showcase their skills and determination in the matches ahead.

Barcelona’s manager, Hansi Flick, expressed satisfaction with his team’s overall performance despite their 2-1 loss to Atletico Madrid in Saturday night’s La Liga clash.

The match, held at Camp Nou, showcased a spirited effort from the Catalan giants, although they fell short of securing points.

The game began with a bright moment for Barcelona as their young star Pedri found the back of the net in the first half.

Pedri, who has been a consistent performer for the team, displayed his skill and composure to give the home fans something to cheer about.

However, Atletico Madrid, led by their tactical mastermind Diego Simeone, turned the game around in the second half.

Atletico’s equalizer came from Rodrigo De Paul, who seized an opportunity with a well-placed finish.

The Argentine midfielder, known for his dynamic play and sharp vision, played a crucial role in shifting the momentum.

Moments later, Alexander Sorloth sealed the victory for the visitors with a decisive goal, showing his strength and clinical finishing.

This win was significant for Atletico Madrid as they moved above Barcelona in the league standings, with the advantage of having played one game less.

Despite the defeat, Hansi Flick remained optimistic about his team’s future.

In his post-match interview, Flick praised his players for adhering to his tactical vision.

“This is the style of football I want to see at Barça,” he said.

While acknowledging the frustration of losing nine points at home this season, Flick emphasized the positives.

“I’m disappointed with the result, but the performance was exactly what I wanted from my players.

That’s how I want this team to play,” he added.

Former Premier League stars Michael Owen, who played for both Liverpool and Manchester United, recently discussed the possibility of Lionel Messi making a move to the English Premier League.

Owen shared his thoughts in an interview with ESPN Argentina, where he explained why he thinks a move to the Premier League would be a good fit for the Argentine football legend.

The former striker emphasized that with Guardiola at the helm, Messi would seamlessly integrate into a team built on precise passing and attacking football.

At 37, Messi’s future has been the subject of much speculation, with numerous reports linking him to a potential Premier League switch.

His contract at Paris Saint-Germain has ended, and he has since moved to Inter Miami, but the idea of him returning to Europe, particularly to England, has continued to fuel rumors.

One such report, from Tuttosport via Hindustan Times, suggests that Guardiola is keen on securing Messi for a six-month loan, hoping to revitalize City’s form after a disappointing series of results.

Manchester City, despite being one of the most successful teams in recent years, has found themselves struggling with just one win in their last 12 matches.

Their latest defeat came at the hands of Aston Villa, who beat them 2-1 in a Premier League clash, adding to their growing list of poor performances.

Owen further mentioned that, despite Messi’s age, his skill set would suit any team in the world.

However, when it comes to Manchester City, he believes there’s no better match.

“It has to be Manchester City,” Owen said. “With Pep, he knows him so well.

They’re a passing team, and Messi is all about that. It would work perfectly.”