Former Super Eagles assistant coach, Simon Kalika, has said that Nigeria’s absence from the 2026 FIFA World Cup would negatively affect the quality and appeal of the global football showpiece.
Kalika made the remark while comparing the Super Eagles to football powerhouses Brazil and Spain, stressing that Nigeria’s presence adds excitement and commercial value to the tournament.
“These Nigerian players play in top European clubs and are always a joy to watch together on the biggest football stage, the World Cup,” Kalika told Complete Sports.
According to him, missing out on the World Cup denies the world the opportunity to witness the country’s football talents.
“Not being at the World Cup is like covering their talents with a stone so the world can’t see them. That affects the tournament,” he said.
Kalika added that Nigeria’s absence would make the competition less attractive.
“Nigeria is like Brazil and Spain. Not seeing them at the World Cup affects the competition commercially and makes the game look boring,” he stated.
He concluded by insisting that the Super Eagles have the quality to always qualify for the Mundial.
“Nigeria has the players and should always be there at the World Cup,” Kalika said.