Nigeria’s Former Super Eagles Players Decry Missed World Cup Spot

Former Nigeria international Taiwo Oloyede warned that the current Super Eagles will live with regret after the team failed to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, blaming the players involved in the qualification campaign and urging immediate planning for a 2030 berth. He said, “They will be full of regrets right now,” and stressed that Nigeria must learn from the disappointment.

Retired captain William Troost‑Ekong, who ended his international career after the unsuccessful 2026 qualification, said he still misses the team environment. Reflecting on a decade‑long career that included captaining Nigeria to the 2025 AFCON final and winning individual honours, he admitted, “I miss being with the guys… I have my hands itching like I want to be there with them again,” expressing his nostalgia while acknowledging the missed opportunity.