My Dream Will Be Over” — Super Eagles Star Ola Aina Talks About 2026 World Cup

Nigerian footballer Ola Aina has spoken about how badly he wants to play in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The Super Eagles defender, who will turn 29 in October, missed the last two World Cups and fears this could be his last chance.

Nigeria’s Struggle to Qualify

Nigeria hasn’t qualified for the World Cup since 2018. In 2022, they were knocked out by Ghana in the playoffs. Now, they are in 4th place in their group, six points behind leaders South Africa, with only four matches left.

Aina said:

“I got shenked (left out) in 2018 by the manager. I was supposed to go, but he didn’t pick me. Then we didn’t qualify in 2022. So for 2026, I’m giving it everything.
If we don’t qualify, I think my World Cup dream is over. I’ll be too old by the next one. I’m not trying to take anyone’s spot then. And it’s in the US — I really want to be there. We have four games left and we need to win them all.”

Hope Still Alive

Although Nigeria’s chances of qualifying are slim, there’s still hope. Aina believes the team must give everything in the last few games.

Strong Season for Aina

Aina had a great season with Nottingham Forest, helping them finish 7th in the Premier League. He even extended his contract with the club until 2028.

Now, his focus is on helping Nigeria get back to the World Cup.