Victor Osimhen of Nigeria Super Eagles. Copyright: ImagoxSFSIx
Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen has finally broken his silence on Nigeria’s absence from the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Soccernet.ng reports.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup kicked off last week, delivering plenty of excitement so far. This edition is historic, marking the first time the tournament has expanded to 48 teams, making it the most lucrative to date for all participating nations.
Despite Africa being awarded nine automatic qualifying slots and an additional spot in the playoffs, the Super Eagles failed to qualify. After finishing second in their group, Nigeria entered the continental playoffs but were ultimately eliminated by DR Congo.
Victor Osimhen, Semi Ajayi and William Ekong Troost for Super Eagles (Photo by Nsidibe AkpanxImago)
This marks the second consecutive time Nigeria has missed the global showpiece—a significant disappointment for the nation, especially given the high caliber of talent in the squad. During a recent social media stream, Osimhen expressed his frustration regarding the team's absence.
”It's bad, not just for me but for the rest of the guys,” Osimhen stated. “We've missed out twice in a row. Sometimes life happens, so we just have to keep moving.”
Nigeria’s last appearance at the World Cup was in 2018. As a result, many players in the current setup, including Osimhen, have yet to experience the tournament.
Can the Super Eagles Qualify for the Next World Cup?
DR Congo vs Nigeria Super Eagles. (Photo credit: FECOFADRC/X)
Nigeria undoubtedly have the quality needed to compete at the World Cup. This is as they boast world-class talents like Alex Iwobi, Samuel Chukwueze, Wilfred Ndidi, Ademola Lookman, and, of course, Victor Osimhen.
Their recent struggles have largely been due to administrative failures. During the qualification series, the Super Eagles were managed by three different coaches, a situation widely blamed on the Nigeria Football Federation’s (NFF) ineptitude.
Super Eagles during the AFCON match between Algeria and Nigeria. Copyright: IMAGOxshengolpixsx
Looking ahead to the next tournament, the current squad will be significantly more experienced, though many key players will be in their 30s.
Nonetheless, under the tutelage of coach Eric Chelle, the team is showing genuine promise. The squad has developed a defined identity and is playing with a new sense of purpose. If the Super Eagles maintain this level of performance, they are well-positioned to qualify for the next World Cup.
Kelvin Omachonu is a professional football columnist and sports writer with over half a decade of experience covering major events and delivering captivating, analytically-driven stories.
A graduate of the University of Ibadan, he is fueled by a profound dedication to sports journalism and the beautiful game. His insights have previously been featured in respected outlets, including IndyPress UI, UCJ UI Newshive NG, Sportpremi, and a few others.
Away from work, Kelvin is an avid fan of basketball, enjoys a great movie, and is always discovering new music.
