Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen has admitted that Nigeria’s senior national team owes Nigerians an apology for failing to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, describing the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) as a crucial opportunity to make amends.
Osimhen said the disappointment of missing out on the World Cup remains fresh within the squad, noting that the players are fully aware of the pain felt by fans at home and in the diaspora.
“We want to use this opportunity to say we are sorry for not getting the World Cup ticket,” Osimhen said in an interview with Pooja on Sunday.
“We know the disappointment on the faces of many Nigerian fans. Life has happened, so we have to keep it moving, and this AFCON is an opportunity for us to do well.”
Nigeria’s failure to secure qualification for the 2026 World Cup has intensified scrutiny on the Super Eagles and the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), dealing a major blow to a nation long regarded as a powerhouse of African football.
Despite the pressure and high expectations, Osimhen revealed that the mood within the camp remains positive, with players drawing confidence from the quality in the squad and the technical crew.
“The expectation is really high, not just within the camp but also from Super Eagles fans all over the world,” he said.
“But there is no pressure among my teammates, myself, or the coach because we know the kind of quality he possesses.”
The Napoli forward stressed that apologies alone would not be enough, insisting that the team must back its words with strong performances and results on the pitch.
“It’s not going to be easy. We have to fight for every game and every ball. We have to try to win every game and see if we can get to the final and win it,” Osimhen said.
The Super Eagles will be hoping a strong AFCON showing can help restore confidence and rekindle national pride following the World Cup setback.
