Ola Aina says missing the 2026 FIFA World Cup would mark the end of his hopes to ever feature at the tournament, NaijNaira can report. The Nottingham Forest defender admitted he’s giving everything for Nigeria’s qualification chances after previously missing out on the last two editions.
In an interview with the 90sBabyShow, Aina revealed, “I got shenked in 2018. That manager (Gernot Rohr) shenked me, I was supposed to go, but he did rubbish.” He also pointed out that Nigeria failed to qualify in 2022 after falling short against Ghana.
Nigeria currently sits fourth in Group C, trailing group leaders South Africa by six points. Only four matches remain, and the Super Eagles must win all to stand a chance. “This 2026, I’m putting all my energy into it. I need to go because if not, I think my World Cup dream is over,” Aina said.
There’s a potential twist: South Africa may lose three points for fielding an ineligible player against Benin. If that happens, Nigeria could be just three points off second place. Aina believes qualification is still possible, saying, “This 2026 World Cup, I need to be there, I think we can do it.”
Article updated 3 weeks ago. Content is written and modified by multiple authors.
