Former Nigerian player Victor Obinna has strongly criticised the Super Eagles after they failed to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, he says they did not deserve a place at the tournament.
The ex-Inter Milan player made these comments while reacting to Nigeria’s qualifying campaign, “they lost to DR Congo in the playoff stage. Nigeria’s absence from the 2026 World Cup means they will miss two World Cups in a row for the time in decades. Not good enough for the World Cup”.
In an interview with Brila FM Obinna said qualification is earned, not given, he stressed that Nigeria’s poor performances showed their level. “If you didn’t qualify for the World Cup it means you are not good enough. That is just the truth “.
The former striker, who played for Nigeria at the 2010 FIFA World Cup said fans and officials must stop making excuses. Instead they should accept the teams shortcomings.
He said if Brazil didn’t qualify they would face the criticism. “If Brazil didn’t qualify it shows you aren’t good enough, it’s the bitter truth “.
Nigeria’s difficult qualification campaign
Nigeria’s qualifying journey was tough, from the start, they struggled under coaches Jose Peseiro and Finidi George. They dropped points in matches they were expected to win.
Defensive mistakes, uncertainty and a lack of teamwork were recurring problems.
The Nigeria Football Federation later appointed Eric Chelle to revive the campaign, although he stabilised the squad, but their performances were not good enough.
Nigeria beat Gabon in the playoff semi-final, then lost to DR Congo in a penalty shootout, DR Congo later qualified by beating Jamaica.
Super Eagles not Good Enough for World Cup -Obinna Nsofor
