Efe Sodje Voices Disappointment Over Nigeria's World Cup Absence

Former Super Eagles defender Efe Sodje has expressed disappointment over Nigeria’s failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. He insisted that responsibility for the outcome extends beyond the players on the pitch.

Nigeria missed out on the global tournament after falling short in the CAF qualification campaign. This marks the country’s second consecutive absence from the World Cup. The Super Eagles finished behind South Africa in their qualifying group and saw their hopes ended in the playoffs. An appeal by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) against the outcome was unsuccessful, confirming Nigeria’s elimination.

Reflecting on the disappointment, Sodje, who represented Nigeria at the 2002 FIFA World Cup, said he expected more from a team with considerable talent. “Very disappointing. With the quality of players we have, we should be there,” Sodje said, according to Brila Media.

His comments come despite recent improvements in results. The Super Eagles finished third at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and won the 2026 Unity Cup after victories over Zimbabwe and Jamaica.