2026 World Cup: Nigeria faces reality of Super Eagles failed qualification

Earlier this week, Nigeria would have been playing Jamaica in the 2026 World Cup intercontinental play-off final.

Instead, they were in Antalya, Turkey, playing out a 2-2 draw with Jordan in a friendly match.

The Super Eagles lost to DR Congo both on the pitch and off the pitch – after their appeal was thrown out by FIFA.

The Congolese became the 10th African country to qualify for the World Cup, thanks to a narrow 1-0 win over Jamaica.

It made it official: Nigeria will not be at the World Cup.

“It has been a few days of sober reflection for Nigerian football lovers,” Ope Adebari, a sports analyst, reporter and producer with News Central, tells DAILY POST.

“DR Congo clinching the 10th African spot for the 2026 FIFA World Cup was the final wake up call for the fans.

“The Super Eagles had the chance to qualify via the regular qualification process and the African play offs but they failed at both attempts.

“It is clear that a structural and administrative change is desperately needed.

“Italy just let go of three key figures in their football federation due to missing out on a world cup spot for the third consecutive campaign.

“I think persons in the Nigerian Football Federation need to throw in the white towel and give room for qualified and passionate individuals to revive Nigerian football.”

So, what will be the fallout of Eric Chelle’s men failing to qualify?

“The truth is, a lot of stakeholders in Nigerian football, locally and globally will rue the absence of the Super Eagles from the 2026 FIFA World Cup,” Adebari said.

“Money, opportunities and visibility will be lost for certain brands and sponsors.

“It is best for the NFF, their partners, stakeholders and the Super Eagles to look forward, plan realistically for the future, follow the process and aim to execute in the best way possible,” he added.

Any hope with the appeal the NFF has lodged at the Court of Arbitration, CAS?

“We should forget about it. There is no hope,” Adebari replies as a matter of fact.

While other teams will be preparing for the World Cup, the Eagles will be playing friendlies again, this time against Portugal and Poland.

“It will give them a sense of pride as they would rub shoulders with the best of the best,” Adebari added.

“It’s also an opportunity for fringe players or debutants to impress the coach.”