Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen has finally broken his silence on Nigeria’s failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, admitting that the disappointment remains painful for both him and his teammates.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup, currently underway, is already making history as the first edition of the tournament to feature 48 teams. The expanded format offered African nations more opportunities to qualify, with nine automatic slots and an additional playoff place available.
Despite boasting a squad packed with talent and experience, Nigeria failed to secure a place at the global showpiece. The Super Eagles finished second in their qualifying group before suffering heartbreak in the African playoffs, where they were eliminated by DR Congo.
The result means Nigeria will miss the FIFA World Cup for the second consecutive edition, having also failed to qualify for the 2022 tournament in Qatar. For a country with a rich football history and six previous World Cup appearances, the absence has been difficult to accept.
Speaking during a recent social media live session, Osimhen shared his thoughts on the disappointment and the need to look ahead.
“It’s bad, not just for me but for the rest of the guys. We’ve missed out twice in a row. Sometimes life happens, so we just have to keep moving.”
The Galatasaray forward has been one of Nigeria’s standout performers in recent years, but like several members of the current squad, he is yet to play at a FIFA World Cup. Nigeria’s last appearance on football’s biggest stage came at the 2018 tournament in Russia.
Osimhen’s comments reflect the mood within the Super Eagles camp, where frustration over the missed opportunity remains evident. However, the striker’s message also highlights a determination to move forward and focus on future challenges.
With qualification for the next Africa Cup of Nations and preparations for upcoming international fixtures on the horizon, Nigeria will be hoping to rebuild and ensure that the disappointment of missing two consecutive World Cups does not become a recurring trend.
For Osimhen and his teammates, the focus now shifts to restoring the Super Eagles’ place among the world’s elite football nations and ensuring that future generations do not have to watch the World Cup from home.
