Former Super Eagles captain Sylvanus Okpala has warned that Nigeria could lose over \$100 million in revenue if the men’s national team fails to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The three-time African champions were absent at the 2022 edition in Qatar after losing a playoff to rivals Ghana. With the qualifiers for 2026 underway, Nigeria’s campaign is already under pressure after managing just one win in six matches.
As reported by Sport buddy, Eric Chelle released his provisional 31-man squad for the upcoming FIFA World cup qualifier.
Missed Opportunities and NFF Rejection
Okpala, who was part of Stephen Keshi’s coaching staff during Nigeria’s AFCON 2013 triumph, expressed disappointment that the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) ignored his offer to assist the team during the qualification process, as reported by The Guardian.
“I told them I was not asking for a salary, only camp allowances like other staff, and I would only be paid after qualification. Yet, they rejected my proposal,” Okpala revealed.
The 1980 AFCON winner said Nigeria’s failure to qualify would not only affect football but also lead to huge financial setbacks in sponsorships, business, and tourism.
Qualification Still Possible
Despite Nigeria’s shaky start, Okpala believes qualification remains achievable. “It’s not impossible, but our destiny is no longer in our hands,” he noted.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, and for the first time, the tournament will feature 48 teams. Okpala insists Nigeria must step up to avoid another costly heartbreak.
