Super Eagles midfielder, Frank Onyeka has publicly apologised to Nigerians following the national team’s failure to qualify for the FIFA World Cup.
Onyeka has represented Nigeria at two Africa Cup of Nations tournaments, giving him valuable continental experience but the World Cup remains the one stage he has not graced.
“We need to get ready for AFCON” – Frank Onyeka
In a recent interview, Onyeka admitted the team fell short and fully understands the disappointment felt across the country.
“We, the players, are hurting, just as much as Nigerians are hurting. Nigerians have every right to be very upset with us.”
He described the painful reality of missing out on the global stage, noting that the opportunity may not come again for some members of the squad.
“It is very tough not to go to the next FIFA World Cup. Some of us may not be around in five years, in 2030.”
“It’s painful.”
Frank Onyeka has revealed the team is to focus on moving forward with urgency, with the Africa Cup of Nations now just weeks away.
He emphasized accountability and the need for the team to quickly regroup, rebuild confidence, and restore faith among supporters.
“We have an AFCON to play in 34 days and we need to get ready for that and do better than we did last time.”
A Key Player in Nigeria’s Qualifiers
Onyeka played a major role during Nigeria’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign.
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He scored Nigeria’s only goal in the CAF Playoffs Final.
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He had earlier delivered the crucial winning goal that sent Nigeria into the playoffs.
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Across the qualifiers, he appeared in six matches, contributing significantly on both ends of the pitch.
As the World Cup qualification slipped away, the failure is more painful for the player who has never appeared at a FIFA World Cup.
Nigerian Football at a Difficult Crossroads
The Super Eagles now face the challenge of turning despair into determination as they prepare for the Africa Cup of Nations, which begins next month.
There is a growing belief that winning the AFCON trophy is the only thing that can restore joy and pride after the World Cup setback.
