How did Nigeria get to a point where qualifying for the World Cup is even more difficult than winning a World Cup?

Should we tag it on bad leadership, or lack of political will to invest in youth development, or corruption?

Nigeria has lost its dominant position within African football over the years, and the trend of not qualifying for FIFA World Cup tournaments has become a cause for concern. The passionate supporters, as well as the history of the country’s world-class footballing talent, leave a head-scratching gap when the Super Eagles are not able to step on the world stage.

Nigeria has always retained a powerful stance during the World Cup, and its impression during the first one, in ‘94, when they broke into the Round of 16. The Super Eagles once again repeated in ’98 and ’14, qualifying for 6 of the last 8 World Cups. The failure to qualify for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, however, underscores a more significant problem resting within the country’s football system.

Nigeria’s lack of success when it comes to qualifying for a World Cup can be blamed on and lack of focus on managing, coaching, and on-field leadership, as well as a poor administrative structure. Nigeria’s top talents playing within the biggest European leagues play without proper tactical discipline as a cohesive unit.

Morocco, Egypt, Senegal, and other African nations have recently become strong competitors. Nigeria needs to keep its glory and reform the football structure, especially for youth. Realistically, it is important to note that Nigeria can’t depend on its past glory. But rather, there is a need for Nigerians to reform their football structure and ensure that youths are heavily invested in for their development. and ensure competent leadership to restore its global standing.

As qualification for the 2026 World Cup looms, Nigerian fans remain hopeful—but hope alone won’t be enough. Without urgent reforms, the Super Eagles risk becoming a fading force on the world stage.