Why Nigeria Failed to Qualify for 2026 World Cup -Pinnick

Former President of the Nigeria Football Federation, Amaju Pinnick, says the Super Eagles’ failure to reach the 2026 FIFA World Cup is tied to the new qualification format, which he argues placed the team at a disadvantage. He spoke at the Big Sport Dialogue in Ikoyi on Monday while responding to questions about Nigeria’s repeated absence from the global tournament.

Pinnick was challenged by the National President of the Authentic Nigeria Football and Allied Sports Supporters Club, Abayomi Ogunjimi, who asked how his previous roles in CAF and FIFA translated into gains for Nigeria, especially as the Super Eagles also missed the 2022 World Cup during his tenure. The former NFF boss maintained that the 2022 setback was not a reflection of leadership failure.

He insisted that Nigeria would have advanced under the same structure used for the 2018 qualifiers, noting that the team topped a tough group with matches to spare that year. He also recalled key international victories including wins against Argentina and Poland and noted his direct involvement in securing the current national team jersey design.

Pinnick added that his administration ensured significant Nigerian representation across CAF and FIFA committees, a feat he said boosted the country’s presence in global football affairs.