National Teams
Five key takeaways as Super Eagles crash out of 2026 World Cup Qualifiers
By Wale Mustapha
Nigeria’s Super Eagles have been eliminated from the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers after a 4–3 penalty shootout defeat to the Democratic Republic of Congo on Sunday.
The playoff match ended 1–1 after regulation time, but the Leopards held their nerve from the spot to secure qualification.
The result confirms that the three-time African champions will miss the World Cup for a second consecutive edition, having failed to qualify for Qatar 2022.
Here are five major takeaways from Nigeria’s latest setback:
1. The Rebuild Cannot Be Delayed Any Longer
Head coach Eric Chelle has delivered moments of promise since taking charge, but Sunday’s defeat reinforced the scale of work still required.
The squad is in need of restructuring, with several players likely approaching the end of their international cycle and others deserving more prominent roles. The next phase must focus on building a coherent, competitive team rather than relying on individual brilliance.
2. Are the Super Eagles Too Dependent on Osimhen?
Victor Osimhen’s injury early in the second half exposed a worrying over-reliance on the Galatasaray striker.
Without him, the Super Eagles registered no shot on target for the remainder of regular and extra time.
Tolu Arokodare, Akor Adams, Moses Simon and Ademola Lookman were unable to step up, leaving the team blunt in attack and placing additional pressure on the defence.
Chelle must now reassess his attacking options and establish a frontline capable of functioning even in Osimhen’s absence.
3. Another World Cup Miss for Nigeria
Missing the World Cup for the second straight cycle underscores deeper structural issues.
The Super Eagles stumbled early in the qualifiers and never fully recovered—a reflection of inconsistent planning and long-standing administrative lapses within the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).
This failure should prompt a comprehensive review of the team’s technical direction and management processes.
4. Nigeria Against the Rest of Africa
DR Congo benefited from overwhelming support at the Moulay Hassan Stadium, where their fans—alongside neutrals from across the continent—created an intense, energising atmosphere.
The noise, colour and unity in the stands visibly boosted the Leopards throughout the contest.
The scene underscored a familiar reality: Nigeria, one of Africa’s traditional football powerhouses, remains a team many on the continent are eager to see defeated.
5. A Painful Exit, but a Chance for Renewal
Though disappointing, the elimination offers an opening for Nigeria to reset its footballing priorities.
Clearer long-term planning, disciplined squad development and stronger administrative support will be crucial if the Super Eagles are to regain their status on the global stage.
