In a heartfelt message ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, Super Eagles star Victor Osimhen has issued a sincere apology to Nigerians for the team’s failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Galatasaray striker expressed the collective regret of the squad, acknowledging the deep disappointment felt by football fans across the country and beyond.
Speaking from the team’s camp in Fès, Morocco, just days before their Group C opener against Tanzania, Osimhen didn’t hold back his emotions. The reigning African Player of the Year described the upcoming AFCON tournament as a vital chance for redemption. He noted that the players are fully aware of the high expectations and are desperate to “right their wrongs” following their exit from the World Cup race.
The Super Eagles’ hopes for a spot in North America were dashed last month in a dramatic playoff final against DR Congo. After a hard-fought encounter that ended in a 1-1 draw after 120 minutes, the Leopards eventually edged out Nigeria 4-3 in a tense penalty shootout. The loss means the three-time African champions will miss the global showpiece for the second consecutive time, a reality Osimhen says the team is struggling to come to terms with.
“We are so sorry,” Osimhen told the media during a training session. “We know the disappointment written on the faces of Nigerian fans. Life has happened, and we have to keep it moving, but we want to make our supporters all over the world believe that there is so much more we can give.” He emphasized that the group is focused on using the continental stage to rebuild trust and prove their quality once again.
As the team prepares for their Tuesday clash at the Complexe Sportif de Fès, the focus has shifted entirely to securing a fourth AFCON title. For Osimhen and his teammates, the mission is clear: turn the pain of the World Cup miss into the fuel needed to dominate on African soil and bring joy back to millions of expectant Nigerians.
