The failure of Nigeria's Super Eagles to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup has sparked an intriguing historical debate among football fans, suggesting it might be a positive sign for defending champions Argentina.
The Unlucky Pattern for Nigeria, A Lucky Charm for Argentina
A social media user with the handle drewxi_ recently highlighted a remarkable coincidence on Instagram. The user pointed out that on all three occasions when Argentina has lifted the World Cup trophy, Nigeria was notably absent from the tournament.
Argentina claimed its first world title in 1978, a year Nigeria failed to qualify. Their second victory came in 1986, another year the Super Eagles missed the global showpiece. The trend continued in 2022 when Lionel Messi finally won his first World Cup in Qatar, again in a year Nigeria did not make the cut.
With Nigeria once again failing to secure a spot for the 2026 edition, fans are now wondering if history is set to repeat itself, paving the way for Messi to secure a second consecutive title.
How Nigeria Missed the 2026 World Cup
The Super Eagles' journey to the 2026 World Cup ended in disappointment after a fierce rivalry with the Black Stars of Ghana. The final qualifying phase saw the first leg end in a 0-0 stalemate at the Baba Yara Stadium in Kumasi.
The decisive second leg at the Moshood Abiola International Stadium in Abuja saw Ghana take an early lead with a 10th-minute strike from Thomas Partey. Nigeria managed to equalize through a penalty converted by stand-in captain William Troost-Ekong.
However, the 1-1 final score meant Ghana progressed to the World Cup based on the away goals rule, leaving the Nigerian team and its fans devastated.
Messi's Hopes for 2026
Meanwhile, Lionel Messi has expressed his desire to defend the World Cup title with Argentina. The 38-year-old Inter Miami star acknowledged the challenge but remains hopeful about his participation.
"The truth is that yes, it’s something extraordinary to be able to be in a World Cup. And I would like to be there," Messi told NBC Sports. "To feel well and to be an important part of helping my national team, if I am there. And I’m going to assess that on a day-to-day basis."
As the football world watches this unusual pattern, all eyes will be on the 2026 tournament to see if Nigeria's absence truly becomes Argentina's gain once more.
