Former Super Eagles forward Obafemi Martins has applauded the progress made by Nigeria under head coach Eric Chelle but says the country’s failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup remains a painful reality.
The former Newcastle United striker expressed his admiration for the current direction of the national team, particularly after Chelle introduced several new faces into the squad during recent international assignments.
Since taking charge of the Super Eagles in January 2025, Chelle has overseen a rebuilding process aimed at strengthening the team for future competitions. The Franco-Malian tactician has handed opportunities to a number of emerging players while maintaining a competitive core within the squad.
Martins believes the recent performances of the team and the quality within the squad make Nigeria’s absence from the 2026 World Cup even more difficult to accept.
Speaking about the current crop of players, the former Inter Milan and Newcastle United star praised the newcomers for taking their chances and contributing positively whenever called upon.
According to Martins, the team’s overall form has been encouraging, but it is frustrating that a talented generation of players will not have the opportunity to showcase themselves at football’s biggest tournament this summer.
The 41-year-old also urged the players to remain focused on the future and begin preparations for the next World Cup cycle. He believes the Super Eagles possess enough quality to become a stronger force in African football if they continue building on the foundations laid by Chelle.
Nigeria recently used the Unity Cup and a series of international friendlies to test new players and expand the national team pool, with the coaching crew closely monitoring talents from Europe and the domestic league.
Despite the disappointment of missing out on the 2026 World Cup, optimism remains around the Super Eagles camp. The team’s recent performances have provided encouragement for supporters, while Chelle continues to shape a squad capable of competing for major honours in the coming years.
For Martins, however, one feeling still lingers above all else: the disappointment that Nigeria will not be part of the global football showpiece despite possessing a squad he believes is good enough to compete with the best nations in the world.
