Bonfrere Calls for Fresh Start for Super Eagles Post-2026

Jo Bonfrere, former coach of Nigeria's Super Eagles, has urged for a fresh start for the national team following their failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Super Eagles will miss the tournament set to take place across Canada, Mexico, and the United States in June 2026, marking a worrying trend for the three-time African champions.

Their absence raises concerns about the long-term development of the squad, especially after recent struggles, including a playoff loss to their fierce rivals, Ghana, for the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. The team, led by coach Ric Chell, faced another setback in November 2025 when they lost on penalties to the Democratic Republic of Congo in the African playoff final.

Bonfrere believes that this setback should serve as a turning point for the team rather than a lingering burden, emphasizing the importance of immediate planning for future tournaments.