By Sport Analyst
Emmanuel Afonja
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The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has issued an official apology to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Nigerians nationwide following the Super Eagles’ heartbreaking failure to secure qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Nigeria’s hopes were dashed on Sunday, November 16, after DR Congo overturned a deficit and edged the Super Eagles 4–3 on penalties in the African play-offs final in Rabat. The defeat means Nigeria will miss the World Cup for the second tournament in a row—a major setback for a country with a proud football legacy.
In a statement released on X, the Federation described the loss as a deeply painful moment for the nation’s football community. The NFF expressed regret over the outcome and assured Nigerians that a full internal review would begin immediately to address the shortcomings that contributed to the team’s performance.
“The Nigeria Football Federation wishes to sincerely apologise to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Federal Government, and to millions of Nigerians, especially our loyal football supporters, following the Super Eagles’ failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup,” the statement read.
The Federation acknowledged the emotional weight of the disappointment, noting that the Super Eagles serve as a national symbol of unity and shared pride. Missing the World Cup again, the NFF said, was a painful blow for a nation so passionate about the sport.
The NFF also recognised the support it received throughout the qualification journey—from government institutions, the National Sports Commission, the National Assembly, diplomatic missions, partners in the sports sector, and millions of fans across Nigeria and the diaspora. It described football as a powerful cultural bond that unites over 200 million Nigerians.
Looking ahead, the NFF stated that its focus now shifts to the upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, describing the tournament as an opportunity for renewal and healing after the World Cup setback.
The Federation announced plans to undertake a “rigorous, honest, and strategic” evaluation of technical, administrative, and structural factors that affected the qualification campaign. It promised decisive reforms aimed at restoring the Super Eagles’ competitive edge.
In closing, the NFF pledged to rebuild public confidence and work tirelessly to restore Nigeria’s status on the global football stage. “We will not allow this disappointment to define the future of Nigerian football,” the statement assured. “Nigeria is a nation of resilience, hope, and unbreakable spirit. As our people rise from every challenge, so will the Super Eagles.”
