Nigerian football fans are experiencing renewed hope for World Cup qualification after prominent journalist Osasu Obayiuwana revealed that an African country faces serious trouble in the ongoing qualifying process for the 2026 tournament.
The Breaking Revelation
Osasu Obayiuwana, a respected former BBC reporter and lawyer, sent shockwaves through African football circles with his recent social media post suggesting impending drama in the World Cup qualifying campaign. The expanded 2026 FIFA World Cup will feature 48 teams, with Africa allocated ten spots, nine of which have already been confirmed.
In his cryptic message on X platform, Obayiuwana stated: "A big FIFA World Cup qualifying storm is coming, concerning an African country. Which country in Africa? And why it is going to find itself in a big mess? That will be revealed when the time is right."
Current African Qualification Status
Nine African nations have already secured their places at the mundial scheduled for next summer in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The qualified teams include:
- Algeria
- Cameroon
- South Africa
- Cape Verde
- Ghana
- Egypt
- Morocco
- Ivory Coast
- Senegal
DR Congo remains in contention through the inter-continental playoff route scheduled for March next year. The Leopards earned this opportunity after defeating Cameroon 1-0 in the African playoffs semi-final and edging out Nigeria via penalties in the final.
Previous Sanctions in African Qualifiers
The World Cup qualifying campaign in Africa has already witnessed several controversies and sanctions. South Africa forfeited three points and three goals for fielding an ineligible player during their 2-0 victory over Lesotho in March.
Equatorial Guinea also faced penalties when it was discovered that striker Emilio Nsue had played multiple matches without completing a proper nationality switch from Spain. Additionally, Congo's football federation (FECOFOOT) experienced FIFA suspension from February to May due to third-party interference in the organization's affairs.
Wan-Bissaka Eligibility Rumors Debunked
Social media speculation immediately focused on DR Congo and Manchester United defender Aaron Wan-Bissaka's eligibility status. Several fans questioned whether the player had received proper clearance from FIFA before representing DR Congo.
However, FIFA officials have officially debunked these rumors, labeling them as 'unfounded.' The world football governing body confirmed it had approved Wan-Bissaka's request to switch allegiance to DR Congo, and he made his international debut in a 4-1 victory over South Sudan during World Cup qualifiers.
When directly questioned about Wan-Bissaka's situation, Obayiuwana responded: "I have no answer to give, because the question is none of my concern," further fueling speculation about which African nation might face disqualification.
Nigerian Fans React with Hope
The development has ignited optimism among Nigerian supporters who remain desperate to see the Super Eagles participate in the expanded World Cup. One fan expressed the collective sentiment: "I hope it benefits Nigeria. Looks like God really wants us at that World Cup. If this eligibility issue clears, then a qualified country will pull out last minute."
With approximately seven months remaining before the World Cup kicks off, the African football community awaits further revelations from Obayiuwana, while Nigerian fans cling to the possibility of a miraculous qualification turnaround.
