Why Super Eagles Players Didn’t Want To Go To 2026 World Cup – Onugkha

Rodina Moscow forward German Onugkha has claimed that a lack of motivation among Super Eagles players contributed to Nigeria’s failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Onugkha argued that Nigeria had enough quality to reach the tournament but suggested that the players’ financial success reduced their desire to participate.

Born in Moscow to a Russian mother and a Nigerian father, the striker has pledged his international future to Nigeria. He previously declined a call-up to the Russian national team for friendly matches against Thailand and Vietnam in September 2024.

Nigeria missed out on the expanded 48-team World Cup after losing 4-3 on penalties to the Democratic Republic of Congo in the African playoff final.

Speaking to Match TV, Onugkha said: “Yes, it was disappointing that they didn’t qualify for the World Cup. However, individuals lack motivation to participate there. Examining their roster—with such calibre of players, World Cup qualification should be achievable.”

He added: “They possess a roster valued at approximately half a billion dollars, yet they failed to qualify. In my assessment, they lacked the desire to go there. They would prefer six weeks of vacation over tournament participation.” Onugkha also questioned whether financial rewards would motivate Victor Osimhen, saying, “I have a lot of money already. Additional wealth would not benefit Osimhen.”

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Reflecting on Osimhen’s performances for Galatasaray, Onugkha said: “He’d scored two goals by the 20th minute; he was a beast! And then I look at the World Cup qualifiers—it’s clear he doesn’t want to play.” These remain Onugkha’s personal views on Nigeria’s failure to qualify for the tournament.