Bukola Olopade Calls for Reflection, Not Blame, After Super Eagles’ World Cup Exit

National Sports Commission Director-General Bukola Olopade has called on Nigerians to “move on” following the Super Eagles’ disappointment of missing the 2026 World Cup, emphasizing the need to shift focus to rebuilding and preparing for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations.

Nigeria’s hopes of reaching the tournament ended in Rabat on Sunday after a 4–3 penalty shootout defeat to DR Congo. The loss reignited debates about the leadership of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), but Olopade urged restraint when speaking to journalists.

He stressed that assigning blame would not aid the team’s recovery. “This is not the time to start talking about who did what and who did not do what. We have lost the possibility of going to the World Cup. We need to go back, sit down, and recalibrate,” he said.

Acknowledging the deep disappointment among Nigerians, Olopade admitted he felt the loss personally but encouraged the nation to look ahead. “We need to allow ourselves a moment to feel sad, hold on to our pillows, but tomorrow we must wake up and remember that we are Nigerians. We must move on and push forward to create a feel-good factor for our people during the Christmas period and the new year.”

He praised the players and coaching staff for their efforts, calling them heroes despite the setback. He also spoke with younger players, stressing the importance of focusing on the next challenge—the Africa Cup of Nations. “We all must recalibrate, come together, and prepare for future challenges. The next immediate battle is the Africa Cup of Nations,” Olopade said.

Addressing criticisms circulating on social media, he dismissed public pressure and clarified misunderstandings about the roles of the NSC and NFF. “People will talk. Many people do not know the difference between the NSC and the NFF. That’s the problem. But it’s okay. It is what it is. It has happened. We move on.”

Nigeria’s exit came after a dramatic evening in Rabat. Frank Onyeka gave the Super Eagles an early lead in the third minute, only for Elia Meschack to equalize before half-time. After extra time, penalties proved costly, with misses from Calvin Bassey, Moses Simon, and Semi Ajayi sealing the team’s fate.