Former Super Eagles coach, Sunday Oliseh, has expressed deep concern over Nigeria’s current position in the race for the 2026 World Cup, warning that missing out on the tournament would be a "disaster" for the nation. The Super Eagles, currently 5th in their group of six teams, face a challenging path ahead, starting with an upcoming match against Rwanda’s Amavubi team. With Africa set to send up to 10 teams to the World Cup, Oliseh believes Nigeria's absence would be a significant blow to the country's football legacy.
Speaking to Supersport TV, the former Borussia Dortmund midfielder emphasized the importance of Nigeria securing its place among Africa's representatives. "Africa could be represented by as many as 10 countries at the next World Cup, and we're at the risk of not being one of these countries," Oliseh remarked, underscoring the disappointment and impact this would have on Nigerian football.
Oliseh, who spent six weeks in Qatar with the FIFA study group during the 2022 World Cup, shared how painful it was to witness the global tournament without Nigeria’s presence. "It was heartbreaking to see teams from across the world, but Nigeria was not there. Our fans, players, and the entire country missed out on that experience," he said, adding that missing the next World Cup would deepen the frustration of Nigerian football supporters.
The former Super Eagles coach highlighted the country's rich football history and the expectations that come with it. For Nigeria, a powerhouse in African football, being sidelined from the world’s biggest stage would not only be damaging to national pride but also to the development of young talent hoping to shine on the global stage. Oliseh’s comments reflect a shared urgency among fans and officials to ensure Nigeria's qualification.
With the 2026 World Cup qualification campaign heating up, Oliseh called for intensified efforts from both players and management to turn the tide. The upcoming matches, he noted, are crucial for Nigeria to reclaim its place in world football and continue inspiring the next generation of players and fans.
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