Onyeka admits Nigeria players hurting after 2026 World Cup miss

Nigeria national team midfielder Frank Onyeka has confessed that every player in the squad was left disappointed following the Super Eagles failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The West African’s chance to stay on course to qualify for the World Cup went up in smoke after they lost their final qualification round 4-3 on penalties to DR Congo following a 1-1 draw after extra time.

During the African Play-off final at the Crown Prince Moulay El Hassan Stadium on Sunday, the Super Eagles took the lead courtesy of Onyeka, who powered home a long range effort.

However, Meschack Elia levelled matters before captain Chancel Mbemba converted the decisive spot-kick to send the Leopards into March’s inter-confederation play-off in Mexico.

Nigerians have every right to be upset

“We, the players, are hurting, just as much as Nigerians are hurting. Nigerians have every right to be very upset with us. It is very tough not to go to the next World Cup,” Onyeka said as quoted by Complete Sports.

“Some of us may not be around in five years, in 2030. It’s painful. But we have an AFCON to play in 34 days and we need to get ready for that and do better than we did last time.”

In Morocco, Nigeria have been drawn in Group C alongside Tanzania, Uganda, and Tunisia. They will kick off their campaign against Taifa Stars on December 23.