Alex Iwobi, the midfielder for both the Nigerian national team, the Super Eagles, and Fulham, has opened up about the current uncertain state of Nigeria’s quest to reach the 2026 FIFA World Cup. According to a recent report from PUNCH Sports Extra, Iwobi described the team as being in a “waiting” mode, hoping for a possible chance to qualify despite setbacks.
When asked whether he would prefer winning the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) over securing a place at the World Cup, the 29-year-old midfielder gave a thoughtful response that highlighted the shared ambitions of his teammates.
“I mean, we’re still waiting. Hopefully, we get to the World Cup, but it’s tough,” Iwobi said. “Winning AFCON is a huge achievement—something memorable and great for any player’s career. But many of my teammates have never been to a World Cup, while I have. So, I wouldn’t want to be selfish and prioritize an AFCON win if it means they miss out on the World Cup. It’s a difficult situation. Honestly, I don’t know.”
Iwobi’s mixed feelings mirror the cautious hope prevailing within the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF). Although the Super Eagles suffered a heartbreaking exit after losing on penalties to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) in their playoff match last November at Morocco’s Moulay Hassan Stadium, the team’s World Cup dreams are not completely dashed.
The NFF has formally lodged a complaint with FIFA, claiming that DR Congo fielded up to six players who were ineligible to participate, based on issues relating to their nationality status. This challenge hinges on a legal conflict: while FIFA rules allow players to switch national teams under certain conditions, DR Congo’s constitution prohibits dual citizenship. The NFF argues that FIFA was misled into approving these players.
Dr. Sanusi Mohammed, the NFF General Secretary, expressed confidence in the federation’s appeal, describing it as “strong and credible” and insisting that the process leading to the players’ eligibility was flawed. “We’re waiting. Congolese law bans dual citizenship, but FIFA cleared those players because they hold passports,” he said. “Our concern is that FIFA was deceived. We believe the approval was fraudulent.”
Despite the controversy and the ongoing legal battle, the Super Eagles recently secured a bronze medal at AFCON 2025 in Morocco. The team continues to be recognized as one of Africa’s most skilled and promising football squads.
