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, declaring that the team is well-prepared to compete against the world's best.

Ere revealed that the team had spent two months in camp, describing the extended preparation period as a significant advantage in improving the players' understanding, teamwork and confidence ahead of the global tournament.

He noted that the lengthy camping programme was uncommon in Nigerian football and had provided the players with enough time to develop a strong bond and understanding on the pitch.

“As you know, we have been in camp for the past two months. Not many teams have the opportunity to stay together for two months. We have trained, played together and built a strong relationship. I can tell you for free that this team is in good shape,” Ere said.

The federation president also highlighted the team's encouraging performances in friendly matches against able-bodied players, recalling that the Special Eagles lost their first encounter 4-2, drew the second 2-2 and secured a 2-0 victory in their third match last Friday.

According to Ere, the results reflect the team's growing attacking creativity and tactical development as preparations intensify.

He further disclosed that the squad features six professional amputee footballers based in Turkey, alongside home-based players, providing a combination of international exposure and domestic experience.

Ere also appreciated the support of the National Sports Commission (NSC), assuring Nigerians that the players remained determined to overcome challenges and deliver an impressive performance at the World Cup.

“We want Nigerians to know that we have special people representing the country through amputee football. We are not giving up because of our physical conditions. We are going to compete at the World Cup, and our target is to reach the semi-finals or final. We want to make Nigeria proud and return home with our fair share of success,” he stated.

Meanwhile, head coach of the Special Eagles, Gbenga Dosunmu, has also expressed satisfaction with the team's preparations, describing the two-month camping programme as unprecedented in the history of amputee football in Nigeria.

Dosunmu said the players were highly motivated and focused on making a strong impression at the tournament, stressing that reaching the semi-finals remained their immediate target.

Nigeria have 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, the coach 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.

“We have six players who are professional amputee footballers in Turkey, and I know my players are up to the task. We have not seen Spain play yet, but we are preparing to give our best. We have also played Egypt twice before, but this time around, we are determined to take all three points from them,” Dosunmu said.