The usual thrill and glamour associated with the FIFA World Cup are noticeably absent in Nigeria as the expanded 48-team tournament kicks off today. Hosts Mexico face South Africa's Bafana Bafana in the opening match, featuring 10 African nations among 48 participants. Sadly, Nigeria is not among them, and the frustration of missing a second consecutive World Cup weighs heavily on the nation.
Odegbami Calls for NFF Overhaul
Pained by Nigeria's failure to qualify, football legend Olusegun "Mathematical" Odegbami has called for the removal of the current Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) board. He argues that failing to qualify for major tournaments should have prompted immediate resignations. "Since they are not willing to resign, Nigerians should ‘flush’ them out," he said.
Fans Express Disappointment
Analyst Ifeoluwa Leo took to Facebook to voice his anger, targeting NFF Secretary General Mohammed Sanusi. "It is very sad Nigeria is not among the countries featuring in the 2026 World Cup," he wrote. Leo insisted that Sanusi should have left alongside former NFF president Amaju Pinnick, especially under President Ibrahim Gusau. "This man is responsible for most of the problems from the NFF, and until he leaves, progress will remain distant. I wonder how the National Sports Commission has not ensured he is booted out after 19 years as secretary. September is near. If Gusau returns and Sanusi stays, the Super Eagles will miss the 2030 World Cup too. We must reform our football and restore our pride," he stated.
Economic and Cultural Impact
With 48 countries competing, the usual street-level frenzy, watch parties, and national pride are missing from local viewing centers. Nigeria is estimated to lose over N10.5 billion in tournament revenue. The only consolation for some Nigerians is the "Diaspora twist"—players of Nigerian descent starring for other nations, including Bukayo Saka, Eberechi Eze, and Noni Madueke (England), Michael Olise (France), Jamal Musiala and Felix Nmecha (Germany), Folarin Balogun (USA), Manuel Akanji and Noah Okafor (Switzerland), David Alaba and Carney Chukwuemeka (Austria), Owen Goodman, Tani Oluwaseyi, and Promise David (Canada), and Antonio Nusa (Norway).
