Former England captain John Terry has voiced his disappointment over Nigeria’s inability to secure a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, saying the absence of the Super Eagles will be keenly felt at the tournament.
Speaking during a virtual roundtable organised by SuperSport, Terry described Nigeria as one of the countries that consistently brings excitement, quality football and passionate support to the global competition.
According to the former Chelsea defender, the Super Eagles’ rich football heritage and abundance of talent have always made them a notable presence on the world stage.
“Nigeria will be a big miss. This World Cup provides opportunities for nations that have not had the chance to participate before,” Terry said.
He added that he would have preferred to see an established football nation like Nigeria at the tournament, citing the quality of players available to the team and the country’s strong football culture.
“I would have loved to see a top side like Nigeria there because they have some outstanding individuals. They are a great football nation,” he stated.
Terry further suggested that Nigeria could have made a deep run in the competition had they qualified.
“I think Nigeria’s absence is a major loss because they probably would have progressed far in the tournament. Unfortunately, one team’s disappointment creates an opportunity for another,” he said.
The former defender also joked about former Super Eagles captain and ex-Chelsea teammate, Mikel Obi, saying he was unhappy about Nigeria missing out on the World Cup.
“I know Mikel Obi is very disappointed that Nigeria are not there. It means he won’t get the chance to do more World Cup commentary, and that’s why he’s upset,” Terry remarked humorously.
Terry’s comments came as the 2026 FIFA World Cup kicked off on Thursday night, with co-hosts Mexico taking on South Africa in the opening Group A fixture.
Meanwhile, the Super Eagles concluded their latest international break with a 2-1 defeat to Portugal in a friendly encounter.
Portugal took the lead through Pedro Neto before Akor Adams restored parity for Nigeria. However, substitute Francisco Conceição netted the winner with a superb curling strike into the far corner to hand the hosts victory.
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