Former Super Eagles forward, Julius Aghahowa is among those deeply disappointment after Nigeria’s 1–1 draw and 5–4 penalty shootout defeat to DR Congo, ending the nation’s hopes of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Speaking in an interview with Ifeanyi Udeze on Brila Net, Aghahowa said the result was painful for the country and for millions of fans who had hoped to see the team on football’s biggest stage.
“It was so painful to see that the Super Eagles won’t be at the World Cup. We were looking forward to seeing the national team there.”
Aghahowa urged Nigerians to shift focus from blame to long-term rebuilding and how the failure should inspire structural improvement rather than short-term reactions.
“We can take some positives. At least it will give us appetite to go back and reflect,” he explained.
“We have a long time to really sit down and look at the options we have not when it’s closer to the end of the tournament or a quick fix.”
“We should look for long-term solutions.”
“His impact is a big plus” – Aghahowa Hails Osimhen
One of the most significant talking points from the match was the absence of star striker Victor Osimhen, and Julius Aghahowa was clear about how important the forward is to the Super Eagles.
“Football is a team sport, but the impact of Osimhen is a big plus to the team,” he said.
“Even if the game is difficult he will always find a way to put the ball in the net. Even when he doesn’t score, his work rate and 101% effort are always there.”
Aghahowa highlighted the striker’s qualities including his relentless pressing, movement, and physical presence, which he believes were missing in the crucial match.
“When he isn’t there, they will feel it. Everything they do must end with someone scoring.”
“If he is not there and there is no one to score, then there is a problem. That’s what happened in the second half yesterday.”
The former forward stated that Nigeria struggled in attack because the available forwards depend heavily on service, unlike Osimhen who most times, single-handedly create goalscoring opportunities.
“If someone like Osimhen is there, you don’t need many chances, but other players rely on service, and that makes it difficult.”
