Nigeria's Super Eagles are nowhere to be found at the 2026 FIFA World Cup — and their absence is being felt across North America with every passing match.

Writing for Complete Sports Nigeria, veteran football analyst Segun Odegbami argues that while this edition of the tournament has delivered drama, upsets, and suspense in abundance, it has also laid bare a painful truth: Nigeria should be here.

Diaspora stars fill the void

Although the Super Eagles failed to qualify, players of Nigerian descent are making their presence felt through other national teams. At least 12 players with Nigerian heritage have been identified at the tournament, representing countries including England, United States, France, and Austria.

Former international and ex-Falcons coach Sam Okpodu captured the sentiment well. He argued that a frontline combining Victor Osimhen, Folarin Balogun of United States, and Bukayo Saka of England would have been virtually unstoppable had they played together for Nigeria at this World Cup.

Those players — scattered across multiple squads — form a kind of imaginary Diaspora Super Eagles, a reminder of the depth of talent Nigeria produces but does not always retain.

A nation built on footballing excellence

Odegbami describes Nigeria as a