John Ogu, a former Nigeria midfielder, has blamed both the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and the Nigeria national football team (the Super Eagles) for the country’s failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Reports say that Nigeria’s hopes ended in November 2025 when the Super Eagles lost to DR Congo on penalties after a 1-1 draw in the African play-offs.

Ogu told Brila FM that the campaign fell apart because of deep problems within the federation and a lack of commitment from the players.

He said, “The people in charge of our football aren’t football-oriented and don’t know much about it. That’s what I think.”

“For example, Samuel Eto’o is the FA President in Cameroon, and he knows a lot about football. If you play football and think you’re helping your country, they won’t invite you. This happened to André Onana.

“I think the people in charge of our football need to do a better job. NFF can also blame the players.

“NFF is more about the structure.” I won’t even blame the NFF completely because you know why? It is a dream come true to represent Nigeria.

“They do their best, but it might not be enough.”

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For the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will begin in the United States, Mexico, and Canada from June 11 to July 19, 2026, twelve teams have guaranteed their spots in the final play-off.

Italy defeated Northern Ireland 2-0 in the World Cup play-off semifinals for European teams, while Denmark defeated North Macedonia 4-0 and Türkiye defeated Romania 1-0.

Viktor Gyökeres scored a hat-trick as Sweden defeated Ukraine 3-1, Kosovo defeated Slovakia 4-3 in a thrilling seven-goal match, and Poland overcame Albania 2-1.

Czechia advanced following a 2-2 draw with the Republic of Ireland and won the shootout 4-3, while Wales drew 1-1 with Bosnia-Herzegovina before losing 4-2 on penalties.

A decisive round of play-off finals is scheduled for Tuesday, March 31. Italy will play Bosnia, Poland will play Sweden, Kosovo will play Turkey, and Czechia will play Denmark.

Fixtures for European teams in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Play-off finals
Final Fixture for Path A:

Italy against Bosnia & Herzegovina. Location: Bosnia & Herzegovina, Zenica. The winner joins Qatar, Canada, and Switzerland in Group B.

Final Fixture on Path B:

Poland vs. Sweden. Location: Sweden, which has a home advantage. Along with Japan, the Netherlands, and Tunisia, the winner gets added to Group F.

Final Fixture for Path C

Kosovo versus Turkey. Location: Pristina, Kosovo. The winner joins the United States, Paraguay, and Australia in Group C.

Final Fixture for Path D

Denmark and Czechia. Location: Prague (Czechia). The winner joins the United States, Australia, and Paraguay in Group D.

Final match for the Intercontinental Play-off Pathway 1:

DR Congo vs. Jamaica (March 31 final).

Final fixture of Pathway 2:

Bolivia vs. Iraq (March 31 final)

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The Nigerian Super Eagles will begin training for their pivotal 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying encounter against the Rwandan Amavubi.
Before the much awaited game at Amahoro Stadium on Friday, March 21, the Super Eagles will camp in Kigali on Sunday, March 16.
Head coach Eric Chelle has announced a preliminary team of 39 players, including both domestic and international stars, in advance of this crucial match. These players are anticipated to travel from their bases to Kigali prepared to compete for a berth on the final matchday roster.

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Additionally, Chelle’s team will be anticipating their upcoming matchup with the Warriors of Zimbabwe, scheduled for Tuesday, March 25 at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo. The coaching staff will have to reduce the provisional roster to 23 players by the end of the week before that game.
At the moment, the Super Eagles are trying to win their first World Cup qualifying match. They are now sitting in fifth place in Group C with just three points after going four games without a victory, with three draws and one loss.

Because of this, their future games are very important as they try to raise their ranking and earn a spot at the next World Cup.

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