Abdulrahman Gbadamosi, Coach of Sebioba Football Club, Ibadan, in Oyo has urged Nigeria to commence the rebuilding of its football structure immediately to avoid missing a third consecutive FIFA World Cup.

Gbadamosi was speaking against the backdrop of the just-concluded 2026 FIFA World Cup held in Canada, Mexico and the U.S.

According to him, it still feels bad that Nigeria, with its promising football stars did not take part in the global showpiece, urging an immediate preparation for the next one in 2030.

Gbadamosi described the Super Eagles’ failure to qualify for the past two editions as one of Nigeria’s biggest football disappointments in recent years.

“Qualification for the World Cup should not be taken for granted; long-term planning, stable leadership and sustained investment are all critical to future success.

“There must be proper preparation before qualification matches. Government, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and the private sector, must work together with a common vision for football development,” he said.

The coach called for more investment in grassroots football, the domestic league, coaching, schools’ football and youth development, noting that talent alone would not guarantee success.

According to him, countries that consistently perform well at the World Cup build strong football systems over many years, rather than relying on short-term solutions.

He expressed confidence that Nigeria could qualify for the 2030 FIFA World Cup, if the rebuilding process could commence immediately and sustained.

Gbadamosi added that the country’s football history, talented players and passionate supporters, provided a strong foundation for a successful return to the global stage.

Olushola Iyiola, a football fan, said one of the biggest lessons Nigeria should take from the just-concluded FIFA World Cup was that modern football was no longer won by talent alone.

According to Iyiola, Spain’s triumph over Argentina in the final demonstrates tactical discipline, patience, organisation and teamwork.

He said this remained the foundation of success at the highest level.

“Throughout the tournament, Spain showed remarkable consistency. They defended as a unit, pressed intelligently, maintained possession when necessary and made good decisions in key moments.

“They were not always the most flamboyant side on the pitch, but they understood how to control games and execute their game plan.

“That is what separates champions from the rest,” Iyiola said.

Similarly, Kehinde Bamise, a football.pundit also expressed disappointment that Nigeria was not at the just-concluded mundial.

He noted that the FIFA World Cup remained the highest stage in football competition where top players showcased their qualities and represented their country with honour.

According to him, Nigeria needs to put in a lot of hard work, having missed out of the competition on two consecutive occasions.

“It will not speak well of us as a country if we fail to make it to the next one. This may shatter the confidence of the players or even affect the mindset of future stars, if the right steps are not taken.

“The just-concluded world cup produced the best teams and top entertainment, competing for the highest football honour.

“It is so sad that Nigeria has missed out on two consecutive editions and so all hands need to be on deck to ensure we qualify for the 2030 edition.

“A lot of teams have worked hard to earn a spot in the biggest stage and Nigeria’s competition at that level needs a lot of careful planning and proper organisation.

“Sincerely, all plannings must start today and the NFF just needs to sit tight to effect the right plans and mentality,” Bamise said. (NAN)

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