Former Super Eagles captain John Mikel Obi has delivered a sobering message ahead of the fast-approaching Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), warning that even if Nigeria go all the way and lift the trophy, it will not erase the deep disappointment of missing out on yet another FIFA World Cup.
Speaking with firm honesty, Mikel said Nigeria must regroup quickly for the tournament in Morocco, but insisted that the emotional wound of failing to qualify for the 2026 World Cup — the nation’s second consecutive miss — remains too heavy to ignore.
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“Even winning AFCON won’t remove the pain,” the former Chelsea star said, describing the World Cup as the platform Nigerians expect and demand to see their team shine. He stressed that qualifying for football’s biggest event should be the minimum standard for a country with Nigeria’s talent, history and global reputation.
Mikel highlighted the frustration felt by millions of fans, noting that the Super Eagles have now failed in back-to-back qualification campaigns despite having one of Africa’s strongest player pools.
“Nigerians want to see their team on the biggest stage — competing with top nations and the best players in the world,” he said.
What pains him most, Mikel added, is that one of the world’s most in-form strikers — widely understood to be Victor Osimhen — will miss the 2026 Mundial despite being at the peak of his career. The midfielder said it is moments like these that should force Nigerian football to reflect deeply and set higher standards.
Still, Mikel urged the players to regroup, refocus and give their all at the AFCON, describing it as the next immediate opportunity to restore some national pride. But he remained clear:
Nigeria belongs at the World Cup — and nothing else comes close
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