Okala Laments Super Eagles’ Second Consecutive World Cup Absence
Former goalkeeper Emmanuel Okala has expressed deep disappointment after Nigeria failed to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Super Eagles were eliminated by the Democratic Republic of Congo in a penalty shootout following a 1-1 draw in the playoff final. Affectionately known as the “Man Mountain,” Okala warned that missing two World Cups in a row is damaging to national pride and the growth of the sport. “I am a Nigerian, and I am sad the Super Eagles failed to qualify for two consecutive World Cup championships,” he said. The retired legend, who was Africa’s Footballer of the Year in 1978 and a key figure in Nigeria’s 1980 African Cup of Nations triumph, urged urgent reforms. With qualifiers for upcoming tournaments just weeks away, Okala says the country must act fast to restore confidence in the national team.
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