Ex-West Brom defender explains Super Eagles players state of mind ahead 2022 World Cup

Former West Brom defender Ifeanyi Udeze understands the disappointment of Nigerian fans ahead of the 2022 FIFA World Cup which begins in five days time but has spared a thought for the national team players following Nigeria's failure to qualify for the tournament. 

Speaking on Brila FM, Udeze, who played at the 2002 FIFA World Cup in Korea and Japan explains in a phone-in programme the thought processes of the players. 

"What I want to say now is that the players are the ones hurting most by this World Cup disappointment," Udeze said in response to a listener's call. 

"As they (Super Eagles players) are seeing the other teams making plans for the World Cup and the teams lists made official now, they will be hurting and saying that they should be there. It's beginning to sink in. 

"I understand the feelings. Every supporter of the national team has the right to be disappointed but there's nothing that can be done now. The teams representing Africa are already in Qatar. 

"Let's just show love and support to the other African teams. Hopefully the team will qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations to be played January 2024 and be back for the 2026 World Cup," Udeze stressed. 

Senegal, Tunisia, Ghana, Cameroon and Morocco are Africa's five representatives in Qatar. 

The number of teams to fly Africa's flag in the 2026 World Cup is expected to be nine as the tournament is expected to be expanded to 48 teams.

Izuchukwu Michael

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