Nigeria's Super Eagles miss 2026 World Cup, diaspora players feature elsewhere

Former international Peter Nieketen said Nigeria’s failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup was caused by a lack of commitment among some players and urged the federation to select only those willing to fight for the green and white jersey. He praised coach Eric Chelle’s early work but warned that merit must replace sentiment if the Super Eagles are to return to major tournaments.

Although the Super Eagles will not be at the tournament in the United States, Canada and Mexico, several players of Nigerian descent will feature for other nations. England will field Bukayo Saka, Eberechi Eze and Noni Madueke; Germany will have Jamal Musiala and Felix Nmecha; Switzerland will include Manuel Akanji and Noah Okafor; Austria will be represented by David Alaba and Carney Chukwuemeka; and the United States will count Folarin Balogun among its attackers.