Super Eagles’ World Cup Quest Forces Possible Cancellation Of Venezuela, Colombia Friendlies

According to Ireporter Online, the planned international friendlies between Nigeria’s Super Eagles and the national teams of Venezuela and Colombia are now uncertain following Nigeria’s qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup playoffs.

The Super Eagles sealed their place in the playoffs after an emphatic 4–0 victory over the Cheetahs of Benin Republic on Tuesday night. The team had been scheduled to face Venezuela on November 14, followed by a clash with Colombia four days later. However, both matches are now at risk of cancellation as the team shifts its focus to the crucial World Cup qualifying fixtures.

Based on the latest playoff schedule, Nigeria is set to face Gabon in the semi-final on Thursday, November 13. Should the Super Eagles triumph over the Panthers, they will advance to the final to meet the winner between Cameroon and DR Congo.

Officials of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) are expected to issue a formal statement soon, confirming whether the friendlies will proceed or be cancelled to allow the team to concentrate fully on their playoff campaign.

In a related development, reports indicate that English Championship side Watford have withdrawn from negotiations to re-sign Nigerian striker Emmanuel Dennis. The 27-year-old forward, who mutually parted ways with Nottingham Forest in August, has been training with Watford in a bid to secure a new deal.

Though earlier reports suggested that Watford were considering offering Dennis an 18-month contract, recent developments indicate the club may have shelved the idea. Sources close to the club disclosed that Watford could revisit the possibility of signing Dennis when the transfer window reopens in January.

Dennis previously featured for Watford during the 2021–2022 season and returned on loan in January 2024, making him a familiar face to fans of the Hornets.