Soccer
The Super Eagles of Nigeria failed to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and the disappointment is one of the biggest in the country’s recent football history, Soccernet.ng reports.
The disappointment is even more painful when one considers the quality of players available to head coach Eric Chelle. The likes of Emmanuel Fernandez, Arthur Okonkwo and Femi Azeez would’ve been strong contenders to make the World Cup squad.
Since taking charge, the Franco-Malian tactician has overseen encouraging performances, including Nigeria’s successful Unity Cup campaign in London twice, while several Super Eagles stars have enjoyed outstanding seasons across Europe’s top leagues.
Had Nigeria secured qualification, Chelle would have travelled to North America with a squad capable of troubling some of the world’s best teams.
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Based on current form, recent performances, and the coach’s tactical preferences, Soccernet.ng highlights what a likely Super Eagles starting XI could have looked like at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Goalkeeper: Maduka Okoye
After years of uncertainty between the sticks, Maduka Okoye would most likely re-establish himself as Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper.
The Udinese shot-stopper enjoyed an impressive 2025/26 Serie A campaign, recording 10 clean sheets and producing several match-winning displays. His commanding presence, distribution, and improved consistency have placed him ahead of rival Stanley Nwabali and Wrexham’s Arthur Okonkwo.
While Nwabali has been Nigeria’s undisputed number one over the past major tournaments, his current club situation and overall lack of fitness would’ve made him unfit for the Super Eagles’ goalkeeping spot.
Defence: Experience and balance
At right-back, Ola Aina remains one of Nigeria’s most reliable performers. The versatile defender has excelled in the Premier League and continues to combine defensive discipline with overlapping runs
On the opposite flank, Bruno Onyemaechi emerged as Chelle’s preferred choice in Morocco. The Olympiacos left-back was superb in defence against Achraf Hakimi and Brahim Diaz at the AFCON, and produced a brilliant cross for Victor Osimhen’s goal against Algeria. His much-needed balance has made him one of Chelle’s trusted options.
The centre-back partnership almost picks itself. Calvin Bassey has developed into one of Africa’s elite defenders following another impressive campaign with Fulham. The 26-year-old is strong, aggressive, and comfortable on the ball; he would have been Nigeria’s defensive leader.
Alongside him, Semi Ajayi’s experience and aerial dominance make him a logical choice. While younger defenders such as Igoh Ogbu and Emmanuel Fernandez continue to push for opportunities, Ajayi’s international pedigree could have given him the edge in a major tournament.
Meanwhile, the availability of players such as Zaidu Sanusi and Igoh Ogbu would have ensured quality depth across the backline.
Midfield: The engine room
Eric Chelle’s preferred midfield setup places emphasis on athleticism, ball-winning ability, and quick transitions.
Wilfred Ndidi remains the natural anchor. The Super Eagles captain offers defensive protection and leadership. Alongside him, Frank Onyeka provides relentless energy and pressing intensity. His ability to cover ground and disrupt opposition attacks would have been crucial against top teams at the Mundial.
Alex Iwobi completes the trio. The Fulham playmaker arguably enjoyed the most productive period of his international career under Chelle, becoming Nigeria’s primary creative force from midfield.
His ability to link defence and attack with just a pass saw him nicknamed ‘Iwobinho’ at the AFCON 2025 tournament in Morocco.
Attack: Victor Osimhen, Akor Adams and Lookman
Few African teams can boast attacking options comparable to Nigeria’s. Ademola Lookman would likely have operated behind the front two in a free-attacking role.
The 2024 African Player of the Year has evolved into an outlet for goals and assists under Eric Chelle. Ahead of him, Victor Osimhen would naturally lead the line.
The Galatasaray striker remains Nigeria’s talisman and one of world football’s most feared centre-forwards. His pace, aerial dominance, and relentless pressing make him the first name on the team sheet.
Partnering with him is Akor Adams, whose rise over the past year has cemented his place as Osimhen’s partner under Chelle and offers a complementary profile alongside Osimhen.
Beyond the starting XI, Nigeria would have possessed enviable depth, with players such as Samuel Chukwueze, Nathan Tella, Moses Simon, Raphael Onyedika, Tochukwu Nnadi, Ebenezer Akinsanmiro, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, Terem Moffi, Cyriel Dessers, Zaidu Sanusi, and Igoh Ogbu all capable of making an impact.
Ultimately, the greatest frustration is that this generation will not get the chance to test itself on football’s biggest platform. With a spine featuring Okoye, Bassey, Ndidi, Iwobi, Lookman, and Osimhen, Chelle’s Super Eagles possessed the quality to compete at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
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