Nigeria Super Eagles target 2030 World Cup after 2026 qualification miss

Nigeria failed to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a penalty‑shootout defeat to the Democratic Republic of Congo in the African play‑offs. World Trade Organization director‑general and former Nigerian finance minister Ngozi Okonjo‑Iweala praised the recent performances of African teams and said it would be “exciting if Nigeria makes it through to the next World Cup,” expressing hope the Super Eagles will be present at the 2030 tournament, to be co‑hosted by Spain, Portugal and Morocco.

Former captain William Troost‑Ekong called the miss a “major disappointment” but urged it to inspire a revival. He urged the Nigerian Football Federation to devise a clear, sustainable plan so the Super Eagles can return to football’s biggest stage, emphasizing that “all of us are incredibly eager to see Nigeria back at the World Cup.”