RismadarVoice Reporters
June 9, 2026
At least 16 players of Nigerian heritage are expected to feature at the 2026 FIFA World Cup despite Nigeria’s failure to qualify for the tournament.
The Super Eagles missed out on qualification after losing to the Democratic Republic of Congo in the playoffs, marking their second consecutive absence from the global football showpiece.
However, players with Nigerian roots will represent several countries at the tournament scheduled to be held in the United States, Canada and Mexico from June 11.
For England, Bukayo Ayoyinka Saka, Eberechi Oluchi Eze and Chukwunonso Tristan Madueke, popularly known as Noni Madueke, are expected to be part of the squad.
Germany will rely on Jamal Musiala and Felix Kalu Nmecha, both of whom have Nigerian heritage through their fathers.
France’s squad is expected to include Michael Akpovie Olise, who was eligible to represent Nigeria before committing his international future to France.
Switzerland will have Manuel Obafemi Akanji and Noah Arinzechukwu Okafor among its ranks.
Austria’s representatives with Nigerian roots are David Olatukunbo Alaba and Carney Chibueze Chukwuemeka.
The United States will be represented by striker Folarin Jolaoluwa Balogun, while Canada is expected to feature Tani Oluwaseyi, Promise David and Owen Goodman.
Other players of Nigerian descent expected at the tournament include Antonio Eromonsele Nordby Nusa of Norway and Ime Okon of South Africa.
The presence of the players underscores Nigeria’s significant contribution to global football talent development, despite the country’s absence from the 2026 World Cup.
The tournament will run from June 11 to July 19 across host cities in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
