Former Super Eagles midfielder, Seyi Olofinjana, has voiced concerns over Nigeria’s current position in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, asserting that the team does not merit a place at the tournament based on their recent performances. Speaking on Brila FM’s “No Holds Barred with Ifeanyi Udeze”, Olofinjana acknowledged that while qualification remains mathematically possible, the team’s current form does not inspire confidence. 

“With the remaining fixtures, it’s still mathematically possible to qualify,” he said. “However, we have to earn that right. Honestly, with the way things stand, Nigeria shouldn’t be thinking about the World Cup.” 

As of now, Nigeria sits fourth in Group C with seven points from six matches, having secured only one win and four draws, and suffering one defeat. The 44-year-old emphasized the need for a clear footballing philosophy and identity, cautioning that qualifying without a defined direction could lead to another early exit. 

“Even if we qualify now, we’ll start preparing again and end up crashing out in the group stage or the second round. There has to be real passion and purpose behind our football.” Olofinjana, who earned 48 caps for the Super Eagles, highlighted Morocco’s impressive performance at the 2022 World Cup. 

“They didn’t win the tournament, but even as a Nigerian, I was proud of how Morocco performed,” he said. “That’s what true passion and dedication to the game looks like.”