Former Nigeria international Efe Sodje has pointed the finger at both the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and the Super Eagles players following the team's failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Nigeria were eliminated in the African playoff finals after losing to the Democratic Republic of Congo on penalties — going down 4-3 in a shootout following a 1-1 draw after extra time. It is the second consecutive World Cup the three-time African champions will miss.

Shared responsibility

Speaking to Brila FM, Sodje made no effort to hide his frustration at the outcome. "Very disappointing. With the quality of players we have, we should be there," he said.

He was equally critical of those running the game off the pitch. "It's not just the players. We have to also look at the people upstairs because decisions and structure play a big role in why we didn't qualify," Sodje added.

The Super Eagles' qualifying campaign unravelled through a combination of tactical instability, administrative shortcomings, and off-field controversies. Nigeria finished second in Group C behind South Africa, and that failure to top the group forced them onto the difficult playoff path.

Chelle's rebuild takes shape

Despite the World Cup disappointment, coach Eric Chelle is pressing ahead with a significant overhaul of the Super Eagles. His approach prioritises tactical discipline, an attacking philosophy, and the integration of younger talent — a deliberate departure from the wing-heavy, predictable patterns that plagued the team in recent years.

Chelle has introduced central build-up play and compact midfield transitions, aiming to give Nigeria greater control throughout the full 90 minutes. Early signs have been encouraging: the Super Eagles claimed the Unity Cup after defeating Zimbabwe and Jamaica, before drawing 2-2 with Poland in an international friendly.

Nigeria are next set to face Portugal in a friendly on Wednesday, as Chelle continues to assess his squad ahead of future qualifying campaigns.