Will Nigeria Be the National Team Missed the Most at the 2026 World Cup?
The Nigeria Super Eagles will leave a noticeable void on the global football stage. After failing to qualify for the 2026 World Cup for the second consecutive edition, the tournament set to be played in the United States, Mexico and Canada will move forward without one of Africa’s most historic and impactful national teams.
Nigeria’s elimination was sealed in a painful penalty shootout against the Democratic Republic of the Congo, a moment that shut the door on World Cup participation for a squad filled with high-level talent that many expected to see on football’s biggest stage.
An absence that impacts the World Cup
The blow for Nigeria was twofold: they failed to qualify directly and then fell in the continental playoff despite boasting a roster rich in individual quality. The impact is not only sporting, but also symbolic, as the Super Eagles are a team traditionally associated with World Cup football, especially when they feature players capable of changing matches on their own.
The elimination has sparked reactions both within and beyond Africa. For analysts and fans alike, the absence of Nigeria removes a layer of unpredictability and excitement from the global event, particularly given the team’s ability to rise in high-pressure situations and challenge established powers.
The eye test: control and players who dictate games
One of the key takeaways from AFCON 2025 was not simply the statistical output of certain players, but their ability to take control of matches in chaotic environments. The so-called “eye test” highlights footballers who do more than score goals or provide assists — players who set the tempo and shape how a game is played, regardless of the opponent or the atmosphere.
One name that stood out consistently was Ademola Lookman. His freedom on the ball, decision-making under intense pressure and influence over the rhythm of play made him a difficult player to replace. His capacity to dominate spaces and choose the right option gave Nigeria a qualitative edge that numbers alone cannot fully capture.
In midfield, Alex Iwobi displayed exceptional calm and authority, showing an ability to slow the game down or speed it up depending on what the moment demanded. That kind of composure and leadership in central areas is one of the main reasons many believe Nigeria will be among the teams most missed at the World Cup.
What the World Cup loses without Nigeria
The absence of Nigeria from the 2026 World Cup goes beyond leaving out a nation with tradition and passionate supporters. It also means losing a style of play built on creativity, control and decisive moments. Players like Lookman and Iwobi embody a footballing identity that blends talent, personality and emotional command of matches.
Ultimately, the void left by Nigeria is about more than qualification. It is the absence of a national team capable of setting the tone on the biggest stages — something many agree will be deeply missed when the World Cup kicks off in 2026.
