Super Eagles defender Ola Aina has admitted that the 2026 FIFA World Cup could be his final opportunity to fulfill a lifelong dream, and says he is ready to give everything to help Nigeria qualify.
Speaking candidly about his World Cup aspirations, the 28-year-old Nottingham Forest star emphasized the importance of the remaining qualifiers.
“There are four games left. We need to win all four. We have to. I believe we can do it. The team has the quality,” Aina said.
The former Chelsea academy graduate also opened up about his past World Cup setbacks.
“In 2018, I was supposed to go, but the coach at the time left me out unfairly. And in 2022, we didn’t qualify,” he reflected.
Now, with the 2026 edition set to be hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, Aina says his focus is sharper than ever.
“I’m putting all my energy into this. If I don’t make it this time, my World Cup dream might be over. This one is very important to me, and I want to be there.”
Nigeria currently sits 4th in Group C of the CAF World Cup qualifiers, with seven points from six matches.
Only the group winner is guaranteed a place in the 2026 tournament, meaning the Super Eagles must win their remaining games to stand a realistic chance.
