Mikel Obi Blames NFF for Super Eagles’ Failure to Qualify for 2026 World Cup

Former Super Eagles captain John Obi Mikel has openly criticized the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) following Nigeria’s failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

During an episode of the Obi One Podcast, Mikel did not mince words:

“It’s a failure, that’s what it is. It was just a disappointment,” he said.
“We won against Gabon, but couldn’t defeat Congo. It’s all just negative, and that’s my frustration with the NFF. They’re not the right people to motivate these players.”

The Super Eagles, three-time African champions, have now failed to reach two consecutive World Cups, marking their first back-to-back absence since 1994. Despite advancing to the playoff stage, Nigeria ultimately lost to DR Congo in the decisive match on Sunday.