Osimhen speaks out on Nigeria’s World Cup heartbreak, calls for future focus

Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen has called on his teammates and Nigerians to remain focused on the future despite the disappointment of failing to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, admitting that missing the tournament for a second consecutive time has been difficult to accept.

The Galatasaray forward addressed the issue during a recent social media livestream, offering his reflections on a qualification campaign that began with high expectations but ultimately ended in frustration for Nigeria.

“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,” Osimhen said.

The 2026 World Cup, which got underway last week, has already secured its place in history as the first edition of the tournament to feature 48 teams. It is also regarded as the most financially rewarding World Cup ever staged for participating nations.

Africa received nine automatic qualification places, alongside an additional berth through the intercontinental play-offs. Despite the expanded opportunities, Nigeria were unable to secure a place at the tournament. The Super Eagles finished second in their qualifying group before suffering elimination at the hands of the Democratic Republic of Congo in the continental play-offs.

That outcome condemned Nigeria to a second successive absence from football’s biggest tournament, with the country’s most recent World Cup appearance dating back to 2018. For players such as Osimhen, who have progressed through the national team ranks without experiencing the World Cup, the setback has been particularly painful, especially considering the quality within the current squad.

Nigeria’s ranks include established internationals such as Alex Iwobi, Calvin Bassey, Wilfred Ndidi and Ademola Lookman, a collection of talent that has frequently prompted questions about why the team’s performances during qualification fell short of expectations.

Many observers have pointed to administrative turbulence as a significant factor behind Nigeria’s difficulties rather than any shortage of ability on the pitch.

Three different coaches took charge at various stages of the qualifying campaign, a situation that was widely linked to shortcomings within the Nigeria Football Federation and one that disrupted consistency during a critical phase of the qualification process.

There are, however, encouraging indications under current head coach Eric Chelle, who has introduced a more defined tactical structure and helped restore a stronger sense of direction since assuming the role.

Although several of Nigeria’s leading players will be in their thirties by the time the next World Cup cycle concludes, the experience accumulated by the current group, coupled with Chelle’s growing influence and the progress already visible within the team, has fostered cautious optimism that the Super Eagles can secure a return to football’s grandest stage when qualification for the next tournament begins.