The Nigeria Football Federation has issued a heartfelt apology to President Bola Tinubu, the Federal Government, and Nigerians following the Super Eagles’ failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup finals.
In a statement issued on Monday, the NFF described Sunday’s loss to DR Congo in the Africa Playoff Final in Rabat as “a moment of profound sadness for Nigerian football.”
“For a nation where the Super Eagles serve as a symbol of unity, hope, and collective pride, missing out on the World Cup for a second consecutive time is a disappointment of great weight and emotional depth,” the statement read in part.
The football body acknowledged the gravity of the disappointment, noting that the NFF, the technical crew, and the players understand the expectations Nigerians rightly hold.
We understand the passion and sacrifice of a country that has always stood firmly behind its team, through triumphs and trials. And we recognise that our collective effort did not deliver the outcome this nation deserved,” the statement added.
The NFF revealed that the pain amongst the players was palpable in the dressing room after the match, with many struggling to speak.
The Federation expressed gratitude for the enormous support received from the Federal Government through the National Sports Commission, the National Assembly, key ministries, departments and agencies, diplomatic missions, the media, and passionate fans throughout the qualification campaign.
