Super Eagles midfielder Alex Iwobi has expressed optimism that Nigeria can still qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, despite the uncertainty surrounding the team’s campaign.
In an interview on SuperSport Football on Thursday, the 29-year-old reflected on the emotional challenge of balancing the pursuit of continental glory with the desire to compete on the global stage.
Asked whether Nigeria would prioritise an Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title over a World Cup spot, Iwobi acknowledged the dilemma facing the squad. “I mean, we’re still waiting, hopefully we can go to the World Cup. But I feel it’s a tough one. Winning AFCON is a great legacy, a memorable moment in your career. But at the same time, a lot of players haven’t been to the World Cup. I can’t be selfish and say win AFCON and let my teammates miss out. So it’s a tough one,” he said.
Iwobi, who played for Nigeria at the 2018 World Cup in Russia, stressed that the collective desire of many players to experience football’s biggest stage weighs heavily on the team’s mindset.
Nigeria’s AFCON 2025 campaign in Morocco ended before the final, and their World Cup qualifying journey concluded with a 1–1 draw against DR Congo in the playoff final. The Leopards advanced after a 4–3 penalty shootout win, securing a place in the inter-confederation playoffs scheduled for March 2026.
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has since filed a protest with FIFA, alleging that several DR Congo players were ineligible. DR Congo’s authorities rejected the claims, stating all players were cleared by FIFA and urging respect for the result.
As of late January, FIFA was still reviewing the petition, leaving fans hopeful that Nigeria’s path to the 2026 World Cup could reopen if the eligibility complaints are upheld.
