Although Nigeria will not be participating in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the country’s influence will still be strongly felt through a number of players of Nigerian descent representing other nations at the tournament.
Set to be hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, the competition will feature at least 16 footballers with Nigerian roots playing for nine different countries.
England’s contingent includes Bukayo Saka, who is preparing for his second World Cup appearance after emerging as one of the Three Lions’ most important players. The Arsenal star, born to Nigerian parents in London, is expected to play a key role alongside fellow Nigerian-heritage players Eberechi Eze and Noni Madueke.
Germany will rely on the creativity of Jamal Musiala, who was eligible to represent Nigeria through his father, as well as midfielder Felix Nmecha.
For Switzerland, experienced defender Manuel Akanji is set for another World Cup campaign, while forward Noah Okafor is also expected to feature prominently.
Austria will once again be led by captain David Alaba, one of the most recognizable footballers of Nigerian descent. He could be joined by midfielder Carney Chukwuemeka.
Co-host nation the United States will look to striker Folarin Balogun for goals after he chose to represent the Americans over both Nigeria and England.
France will have the services of highly-rated winger Michael Olise, who opted for Les Bleus despite being eligible for Nigeria, England, and Algeria.
Norway’s squad is expected to include talented youngster Antonio Nusa, while Canada will feature Nigerian-born trio Tani Oluwaseyi, Promise David, and Owen Goodman.
South Africa’s representative among the group is defender Ime Okon, a promising young talent with a Nigerian father and South African mother.
Country-by-Country Breakdown
- England: Bukayo Saka, Eberechi Eze, Noni Madueke
- Germany: Jamal Musiala, Felix Nmecha
- Switzerland: Manuel Akanji, Noah Okafor
- Austria: David Alaba, Carney Chukwuemeka
- Canada: Tani Oluwaseyi, Promise David, Owen Goodman
- United States: Folarin Balogun
- France: Michael Olise
- Norway: Antonio Nusa
- South Africa: Ime Okon
Despite the Super Eagles’ absence, Nigerian heritage will remain well represented on football’s biggest stage through these players competing for nations across Europe, North America, and Africa.
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