2026 World Cup: Why Nigeria’s Absence Will Affect The Tournament – Kalika

Former Super Eagles assistant coach Simon Kalika has stated that Nigeria’s absence from the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup would have an impact on the competition.

Kalika said this while comparing the Nigerian team to that of Brazil and Spain, respectively.

“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.

“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.

“Nigeria is like Brazil and Spain. Not seeing them at the World Cup affects the competition commercially and makes the game look boring.

“Nigeria has the players and should always be there [at the World Cup].”