Gernot Rohr, former head coach of the Super Eagles, emphasized the critical importance of Nigeria qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, stating that it would be disappointing for such a football powerhouse to miss out again.

Nigeria did not qualify for the previous World Cup held in Qatar, and their current campaign for the 2026 edition has been challenging with three draws and one defeat in four matches, leaving them second from bottom in Group C.

Rohr, who led Benin Republic to a 2-1 victory over Nigeria, described missing out on another World Cup as a potential disaster for the three-time African champions.

“For a football country with the best players in Africa, it would be a little bit shameful,” he remarked.

Acknowledging the current standings, Rohr stressed the importance of realism and pointed out that there’s still an opportunity to improve, noting, “It’s only three points in four games.”