Victor Osimhen Apologizes To Nigerians For Missing 2026 World Cup

Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen has issued an apology to Nigerians following the team’s failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Speaking ahead of Nigeria’s 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) clash against Tanzania in Fès, Osimhen expressed regret over the disappointment caused to fans across the country and the world.

“The expectations are very high. This AFCON is an opportunity for us to try and right our wrongs,” Osimhen told Pooja Media. He added, “Make the Super Eagles fans all over the world believe that there is so much more we can give. We are so sorry. We have to use this opportunity to say we are so sorry for not getting the World Cup ticket. We know the disappointment in the faces of Nigerian fans, it has happened, and we have to keep it going.”

The Galatasaray star’s remarks come weeks after Nigeria’s heartbreaking loss to DR Congo in the playoff final, which denied the Super Eagles a place at the world’s biggest football tournament. Osimhen acknowledged the emotional toll the failure has taken on fans and vowed that the team would use AFCON 2025 as a chance to redeem themselves.

Nigeria heads into the tournament with high expectations, and Osimhen believes the competition provides an opportunity to rebuild confidence and deliver strong performances. His comments underline the sense of responsibility felt by players to their supporters, highlighting the emotional bond between the national team and its fans.

As the Super Eagles prepare for their Group C opener against Tanzania, Osimhen’s message is clear: the team is committed to putting past disappointments behind them and making Nigerian football fans proud once again.

AFCON 2025 now presents a critical platform for Nigeria to regain momentum, demonstrate resilience, and showcase the talent that has made the Super Eagles one of Africa’s most formidable sides.