Iwobi: Nigeria Still Fighting for 2026 World Cup Spot
Last update: February 7, 2026
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Iwobi reaffirms Nigeria’s determination to qualify for 2026 FIFA World Cup despite uncertainty surrounding campaign.
Super Eagles midfielder Alex Iwobi has insisted that Nigeria remains determined to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, even amid ongoing uncertainty over the team’s campaign.
Speaking on SuperSport Football, the 29-year-old admitted the squad faces a difficult balancing act between continental glory and securing a place at football’s biggest tournament.
“Winning AFCON is… a great legacy, a memorable moment,” Iwobi said.
“But a lot of players haven’t been to the World Cup. So I can’t be selfish and say win AFCON and for my teammates not to go. It’s a tough one.”
CBI News reports that Iwobi, who represented Nigeria at the 2018 World Cup in Russia, said many teammates are driven by a strong desire to experience the global stage for the first time, shaping the squad’s mindset heading into the inter-confederation playoffs.
The comments follow Nigeria’s early exit from AFCON 2025 in Morocco and a 1-1 draw with DR Congo in the playoff final, which ended with the Leopards advancing 4-3 on penalties.
In response, the Nigeria Football Federation filed a formal protest with FIFA, alleging player ineligibility for DR Congo, though Congolese authorities have rejected the claims.
As of late January, FIFA was still reviewing Nigeria’s petition, leaving fans hopeful that a favourable ruling could keep the Super Eagles’ World Cup ambitions alive.
