Two weeks after the 3-0 defeat in Bissau, the focus around the Super Eagles has moved from the result itself to what comes next. A drop in the FIFA ranking and a growing debate over squad places have shaped the build-up to November. Results, tables and fixture details, published by football media and on https://afropari.ng/ among other sports portals, show how much now rides on the double-header against Tanzania. Clear preparation and consistent performances will be essential if the team is to close the gap in Group L.

Down to 30th in the FIFA ranking

The FIFA ranking released on 7 October 2026 reflected the September and October results. Nigeria fell four places, from 26th to 30th in the world, and from fourth to sixth in Africa, behind Morocco, Senegal, Egypt, Algeria and Côte d’Ivoire.

The 3-0 defeat in Bissau was the most damaging result for Nigeria’s ranking points. Guinea-Bissau, by contrast, gained more ranking points than any other team during the window.

A ranking summarises past results rather than predicting a single match, as the defeat in Bissau showed. It does, however, shape how the Super Eagles are perceived before November. The next edition is due on 18 November, after the two games against Tanzania.

Squad places up for grabs

The October window has opened several selection debates ahead of November. Recent reports point to three areas to watch:

  • right-back: according to OwnGoal Nigeria, Abdullahi Bewene of Banik Ostrava is set to be called up for the Tanzania games, adding competition for Ola Aina and Bright Osayi-Samuel;
  • midfield: Ndidi struggled in Bissau and has not been playing regularly at Beşiktaş, while Onyedika and the fit-again Tochukwu Nnadi are pushing for minutes;
  • attack: Akor Adams continues to push for a place, while Tolu Arokodare needs goals to challenge for a starting role behind first-choice striker Victor Osimhen.

Away from the pitch, the Nigerian Observer has reported that a reorganisation of the backroom team is being considered, with roles including team coordinator and media manager under review. No official announcement has been made so far.

Group L after two rounds

The table below shows the situation after the September window:

Team

Played

Points

Guinea-Bissau

2

6

Super Eagles

2

3

Madagascar

2

1

Tanzania

2

1

Tanzania qualify automatically as co-hosts, so the one remaining place goes to the highest-placed team among Guinea-Bissau, the Super Eagles and Madagascar. Tanzania’s results still matter, however. Points and goal difference earned or lost against them count for the other teams and can decide which non-host side finishes highest.

Tanzania twice, then Guinea-Bissau at home

The Super Eagles host Tanzania in Uyo in mid-November and play the return match in Tanzania four days later. Speaking after the defeat in Bissau, Chelle said: “We have two games against Tanzania in November. They are very important games; we have to win both.”

The remaining fixtures, away to Madagascar and at home to Guinea-Bissau, follow in the March 2027 window. Six points against Tanzania would not close the gap on their own if Guinea-Bissau keep winning, but they would turn the home game against the leaders into a direct contest for the remaining place.

Tanzania, a tricky opponent despite automatic qualification

Tanzania have no qualification pressure, because their place at the finals is guaranteed as co-hosts. That freedom can make them dangerous, as coaches often use such matches to test new players and tactics.

The Taifa Stars lost their opening game 2-0 at home to Guinea-Bissau and then earned their first point in a 1-1 draw with Madagascar in Meknes.

For the Super Eagles, a strong start will be important. In both September qualifiers they conceded first, with Madagascar scoring early in Uyo and Guinea-Bissau doing the same in Bissau.

Qualification odds and the Group L picture

The qualification odds in Group L are currently defined by the flawless record and three-goal advantage of Guinea-Bissau. The team depth among the ranks of the Super Eagles is still an important factor, but after the loss in Bissau and the fall to 30th place in the FIFA ranking, it is impossible to regard them as clear favorites anymore.

The prices for the two upcoming matches with Tanzania will surely be affected by the team news and selections as well as venues. It is logical to analyze the mentioned odds in connection with real information, such as number of goals against, away form, and surface.

It should be noted that this method does not necessarily ensure any outcome, especially in qualifiers, where travel, climate and surface play a major part.

Six points needed in November

The October window did not repair the damage from Bissau, but it gave Chelle new information about his squad. Two wins over Tanzania would put the Super Eagles in a position to make the March home game against Guinea-Bissau a direct battle for the remaining place.