Who Nigeria will face after World Cup play-off final defeat as next opponents revealed | OneFootball

Super Eagles will be back in Morocco next month following their World Cup disappointment

Nigeria have failed to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.

The Super Eagles' hopes of qualifying for next summer’s tournament in Canada, Mexico and the United States firstly came down to a mini play-off tournament held in Morocco and consisting of the four best runners-up in the first round group phase.

As per FIFA’s latest rankings, Nigeria - the highest-ranked team of the quartet at 41st - were paired with Gabon - the lowest at 77th - for the second round semi-final.

After the tie had finished 1-1 in regulation time, Chidera Ejuke struck early in the first period of extra-time before Victor Osimhen netted a brace to help Eric Chelle’s side overcome the Panthers.

Despite taking a third minute lead through Frank Onyeka’s deflected strike, the Super Eagles were ultimately beaten on penalties by the Leopards as Chancel Mbemba successfully converted the winning spot-kick.

Defeat for Nigeria means their World Cup dream is over. However, they can still target success on the international stage in 2026.

Eric Chelle’s side will have an immediate chance to get over their World Cup heartbreak, having successfully qualified for the Africa Cup of Nations.

Nigeria have been drawn in Group C along with Tunisia, Uganda and Tanzania. AFCON this year is being held in Morocco from December 21, 2025 to January 18, 2026.

Their opening game takes place at the Fez Stadium against Tanzania on December 23, 2025.

Meanwhile, DR Congo - after beating Nigeria - will be Africa’s sole representative at the FIFA inter-confederation play-off stage.

The inter-confederation play-offs will be conducted in March next year, with six teams from five confederations playing for the final two spots at the World Cup.