Former Super Eagles striker Odion Ighalo expressed deep disappointment over Nigeria missing the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The team failed to qualify directly and lost the intercontinental play-off to DR Congo. Consequently, Nigeria will miss consecutive World Cup tournaments despite having top players in their prime.Ighalo highlighted stars like Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, Samuel Chukwueze, and Calvin Bassey.
He believes these players fully deserve the chance to showcase their talent globally. “I feel sad for them,” Ighalo told Brila FM’s No Holds Barred. He recalled his own experience at the 2018 World Cup in Russia, emphasizing the heartbreak of missing chances. Ighalo scored 16 goals in 37 appearances and remembers fan criticism after missing a critical goal.
He expressed hope for a miracle, wishing the team could still secure a World Cup spot. The NFF had protested DR Congo’s alleged use of ineligible players, but FIFA rejected the claim. Despite the setback, Ighalo urged fans to remain proud of Nigeria’s high-performing squad.
He emphasized that the current Super Eagles are among Africa’s best teams, deserving recognition. Ighalo concluded by expressing personal sorrow over not seeing Nigeria compete on football’s biggest stage.
