Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen has acknowledged that the national team owes Nigerians an apology after failing to secure qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
He described the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) as a crucial platform to make up for the setback and help rebuild national pride.
Speaking in an interview on Sunday with Pooja, Osimhen said the disappointment of missing the World Cup remains fresh among the players, who are fully conscious of the hurt felt by supporters at home and in the diaspora.
“We want to use this opportunity to say we are sorry for not getting the World Cup ticket.”
“We know the disappointment on the faces of many Nigerian fans. Life has happened, so we have to keep it moving, and this AFCON is an opportunity for us to do well,” Osimhen said.
Nigeria’s inability to qualify for the 2026 World Cup has heightened scrutiny on the team and the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), delivering a major blow to a nation long seen as a powerhouse of African football.
Osimhen noted that a strong sense of responsibility runs through the squad, even as expectations remain high.
He explained that rather than being weighed down by pressure, the players are motivated, drawing confidence from the talent within the team and the strength of the technical crew.
“The expectation is really high, not just within the camp but also from Super Eagles fans all over the world.”
“But there is no pressure among my teammates, myself, or the coach because we know the kind of quality he possesses,” he said.
Osimhen emphasised that words alone are insufficient, stressing that the team must back its promises with effort and results.
“It’s not going to be easy. We have to fight for every game and every ball. We have to try to win every game and see if we can get to the final and win it.”