Former Super Eagles head coach Gernot Rohr has praised the impressive performances of Morocco and Senegal at the 2026 FIFA World Cup while expressing deep disappointment over Nigeria’s failure to qualify for the tournament, describing it as a painful setback for African football.
The experienced Franco German tactician, who previously guided Nigeria to the 2018 World Cup in Russia, said Africa is strongly represented at the global showpiece, but insisted that the absence of the Super Eagles leaves a noticeable gap both in quality and in global attention.
Rohr, who now manages the Benin Republic national team, made the remarks while reflecting on the progress of African teams in the ongoing competition. He noted that Morocco and Senegal have continued to show consistency, discipline and tactical maturity, qualities that have helped them compete effectively against some of the strongest teams in world football.
However, he stressed that Nigeria’s absence remains one of the biggest disappointments of the tournament, particularly considering the wealth of talent available to the country.
According to him, seeing top Nigerian players such as Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman and Samuel Chukwueze watching the tournament from home is difficult to accept, given their performances in elite European competitions. He argued that players of such calibre should naturally be part of football’s biggest stage, where they can showcase their abilities to a global audience.
Rohr pointed out that Nigeria’s failure to qualify was not due to a lack of talent but rather inconsistencies during the qualification campaign. He explained that modern World Cup qualification is highly competitive, and small mistakes or dropped points can decide a nation’s fate.
The former Nigeria coach, who spent five years in charge of the Super Eagles, leading them to the 2018 FIFA World Cup and a third-place finish at the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations, said his connection with Nigerian football makes the current situation particularly emotional for him.
He described Nigeria as a country with enormous football potential, rich history and passionate supporters, but warned that these strengths must be matched with long-term planning and stability if the national team is to consistently compete at the highest level.
While expressing disappointment over Nigeria’s absence, Rohr was quick to highlight the positive progress being made by other African nations, particularly Morocco and Senegal.
Morocco, in particular, has continued to earn widespread admiration following their historic World Cup performances in recent years. The North African side has built a reputation for strong defensive organisation, tactical discipline and technical efficiency, making them one of the most respected teams on the global stage.
Senegal, on the other hand, has maintained its position as one of Africa’s most physically strong and tactically balanced teams. With a blend of experienced leaders and emerging talents, the Lions of Teranga have remained consistent performers in international competitions.
Rohr noted that both teams demonstrate how African football has evolved significantly in recent years. He explained that African nations are now capable of competing with Europe’s elite, provided there is proper planning, structured development and continuity in coaching.
He added that the current World Cup shows a clear shift in global football dynamics, where African teams are no longer regarded as underdogs but as serious competitors capable of causing major upsets and progressing deep into tournaments.
Despite this progress, Rohr maintained that Nigeria’s absence still carries significant emotional weight for African football supporters around the world. He argued that the Super Eagles are one of Africa’s most influential football brands and their presence naturally elevates the excitement and visibility of the tournament.
He further stated that Nigeria possesses one of the strongest talent pools on the continent, with many players excelling in top European leagues. However, he believes that talent alone is not enough, stressing the importance of team cohesion, tactical discipline and consistency in key matches.
Rohr also reflected on his time with the Super Eagles, describing it as one of the most memorable periods of his coaching career. He recalled guiding the team through a successful World Cup qualification campaign and helping to rebuild confidence within the squad during his tenure.
According to him, Nigeria’s current challenges highlight the need for structural reforms within the national football system, including better preparation for qualifiers, improved youth development pathways and long-term coaching stability.
He suggested that African football as a whole is moving in the right direction, with increased competitiveness across the continent. However, he warned that nations that fail to maintain consistency risk missing out on major tournaments regardless of individual player quality.
Rohr believes that the lessons from Nigeria’s absence should serve as a wake-up call for football authorities in the country. He emphasized that rebuilding the national team’s identity and ensuring proper planning will be key to returning to future World Cups.
As the tournament continues, Morocco and Senegal remain Africa’s strongest representatives, carrying the hopes of the continent with pride and ambition. Their performances, according to Rohr, are proof that African football is capable of standing toe to toe with the best teams in the world.
However, he insists that Nigeria must not remain absent for long if it intends to maintain its status as one of Africa’s football giants. The country’s history, fan base and talent pool demand consistent participation on the world stage.
In conclusion, Rohr’s reflections capture a mixture of pride and regret. Pride in the achievements of African teams that continue to raise the continent’s profile globally, and regret that Nigeria, one of Africa’s most important football nations, is missing from the spectacle.
His message is clear. African football is advancing, but Nigeria must urgently correct its course to ensure it returns to where it belongs among the world’s elite.
