NFF Apologizes To Tinubu, Nigerians After Super Eagles’ World Cup Exit

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has publicly apologized to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Nigerian public following the Super Eagles’ failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The team’s World Cup hopes ended in dramatic fashion on Sunday night, when they lost to DR Congo on penalties after a tense 1-1 draw across 120 minutes in the African play-off final in Rabat, Morocco.

In its statement released on Monday, the NFF described the outcome as “a moment of profound sadness for Nigerian football,” acknowledging the emotional impact of the loss on the nation. Missing the World Cup for a second consecutive tournament, the Federation noted, is a bitter setback for a team that carries the hopes of millions of passionate supporters.

“The Nigeria Football Federation wishes to openly and sincerely apologise to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (GCFR), to the Federal Government, and to millions of Nigerians, especially our loyal football fans, following the Super Eagles’ failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup finals,” the statement said.

The Federation stressed that the players, technical crew, and management are acutely aware of the high expectations placed on them. “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.

Also read: Chelle Alleges DR Congo Used ‘Voodoo’ During Penalty Shootout As Nigeria Crash Out of World Cup Race

The loss ended Nigeria’s campaign in dramatic circumstances. The Super Eagles had taken an early lead through Frank Onyeka’s deflected strike, only for DR Congo to equalise before halftime. Both sides struggled to break the deadlock in extra time, and Nigeria eventually fell 4-3 in the penalty shootout after crucial misses from key players.

For Nigerian football fans, the defeat is more than just a missed tournament. The Super Eagles are widely regarded as a unifying symbol, and their absence from the World Cup is a heavy blow to national pride and morale. The NFF’s apology underscores the Federation’s recognition of the disappointment, while also signaling a commitment to rebuilding and preparing the team for upcoming competitions.

Looking ahead, attention now turns to the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and other international fixtures, where the Super Eagles will have the chance to restore confidence and deliver results that meet the nation’s high expectations.