The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has issued a formal apology following the Super Eagles’ failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Nigeria’s hopes ended on Sunday after a 4-3 penalty shootout loss to the Democratic Republic of Congo, following a 1-1 draw at full-time. .
Federation expresses regret to presidency, fans
In an X statement released on Monday, the NFF apologised to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and millions of supporters across the country, describing the result as deeply disappointing and below national expectations.
The federation pledged to undertake a comprehensive reset aimed at rebuilding the national teams for sustained success.
Focus shifts to AFCON 2025
According to the NFF, the immediate priority now is the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco this December.
The federation described the tournament as a platform for “healing and renewal,” stressing that it presents an opportunity to reaffirm the resilience that has long characterised Nigerian football.
The full statement:
The Nigeria Football Federation wishes to openly and sincerely apologise to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (GCFR), to the Federal Government as a whole; and to millions of Nigerians, most especially our passionate, loyal football fans, following the .
Super Eagles failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup finals.
Sunday’s loss to DR Congo in the Africa Play-off Final in Rabat remains 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 NFF, the technical crew, and the players understand the gravity of this moment. We 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
