'Something similar' - Yobo reflects on missing 2006 World Cup, compares it to Super Eagles' 2026 mission

Former Nigerian international Joseph Yobo has expressed his disappointment over missing the 2006 FIFA World Cup, drawing comparisons with the current challenges facing the Super Eagles in their pursuit of qualification for the 2026 tournament. 

Yobo described the emotional toll of seeing Nigeria's World Cup hopes in jeopardy.

"I feel horrible because something similar happened during our time," Yobo said to Brila FM. 

"We were young, a strong generation, and missing the 2006 World Cup affected our careers."

Yobo, who captained Nigeria and enjoyed a long club career in Europe, highlighted the importance of continuity for players at the international level. 

Having represented Nigeria at the 2002 World Cup in South Korea and Japan, he noted that qualifying for the next tournament would have provided significant exposure and opportunities for growth in European club football.

"We had just come off the 2002 tournament, and that continuity would have helped many of us move to bigger clubs. Missing that World Cup was a setback."

Despite recalling his own disappointment, Yobo remains optimistic for the current Super Eagles squad. 

He emphasized that a positive outcome is still achievable if the players rise to the occasion with determination and resilience on the field.

After eight games, Nigeria currently sit third in Group C with 11 points, behind leaders Benin and second-placed South Africa, who each have 14 points. 

The Super Eagles’ progression also depends on their ranking relative to other groups. 

Nigeria will face Lesotho in one of the final critical 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers on Friday, before concluding their group campaign against Benin.

Wale Adejumo

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