Nigeria fails to qualify for 2026 World Cup, leaving striker Victor Osimhen out

Nigeria's national football team did not secure a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after losing an inter‑confederation playoff final to the Democratic Republic of Congo in a penalty shoot‑out, despite a semifinal win over Gabon. The defeat means the Super Eagles will miss the tournament for the eighth consecutive year, and their leading striker Victor Osimhen will not appear on the expanded 48‑team roster.

Rafa Benítez, former Liverpool manager, lamented Osimhen's absence, calling the tournament "incomplete" without the Nigerian forward. He also highlighted other top talents missing from the competition and named France as his favorite to win, while noting the strength of Spain, England and Germany.

Nigeria's failure follows a decline from the more consistent World Cup presence the nation enjoyed since the 1990s, when players like Jay‑Jay Okocha helped the team reach the round of 16 three times. The 2026 qualification shortfall adds to the country's recent struggles on the international stage.