The consequences of a country missing the World Cup extend beyond the players. The biggest loser is undoubtedly the player whose career is defined by their absence from the tournament. Everyday people are back at work, but life must go on.
Even players not on the national team are affected, as opportunities abroad become more limited for grassroots players. The football economy tightens for everyone involved.
credit Japheth omojuwa
Our performance in the World Cup qualifiers has been poor. Drawing seven out of twelve games in regulation time and winning only four reflects this. We drew more than we won.
Missing out on one World Cup is bad, but missing two in a row compounds the negative effects. Those in charge of Nigerian football haven’t improved things in the last decade. The Super Eagles’ performance reflects this, and other national teams also show a decline. The Super Falcons’ success is despite the state of our football.
Morocco shows that sports development requires intentionality, design, and commitment. Relying on prayer instead of preparation is not enough.
Nigeria has never built a team solely dependent on one player. Morocco’s success demonstrates the impact of a well-developed football system. Losing the ticket in Morocco reflects their hard work.
The players played the games and are responsible for the results, but they are also victims of a system that relies on talent rather than a well-designed plan.
With 48 teams in the next World Cup, any country that doesn’t qualify can’t blame it on luck. We’ve reached rock bottom. The problem isn’t just being here, but that nothing will change. It’s a shame we don’t know how to help football thrive, let alone build opportunities and excellence. I guess it is what it is.
