“I Was Shenked” – Ola Aina Vows to Give It All for 2026 World Cup After Missing Previous Editions

Super Eagles defender Ola Aina has poured out his frustration and determination as Nigeria teeters on the brink of missing a second consecutive FIFA World Cup, with just four qualifiers left.

In a heartfelt interview, the 27-year-old Nottingham Forest fullback — who turns 29 in October — revealed how much playing in a World Cup means to him, especially after missing out in both 2018 and 2022.

🗣️ “I got shenked in 2018. That manager (Gernot Rohr) shenked me, I was supposed to go, but he did rubbish,” Aina said candidly.

“Then obviously we didn’t qualify in 2022. So this 2026, I’m putting all my energy into it. I need to go... It’s in the US. I need to be there.”

📉 Nigeria’s Risky Position in Group C

Currently sitting fourth in Group C, Nigeria trails group leaders South Africa by six points, and with just four matches left, only a near-miraculous run of wins will keep their World Cup hopes alive.

The Super Eagles have not played at the tournament since 2018, and failure to qualify for a second time in a row would be a huge blow for a country with rich footballing history.

💬 Opinion: Aina’s Passion Echoes What Nigerian Football Needs Right Now

Ola Aina's raw honesty isn't just emotional — it's a reflection of how much the World Cup still means, even to players already plying their trade at top European clubs.

It’s also a subtle call-out to the system — from coaching decisions to administrative missteps — that have left Nigeria’s national team inconsistent and underwhelming in recent years.

At 29 by the time of the next World Cup, Aina knows this could be his last realistic shot, and his words should light a fire in both fans and players alike. The time for excuses is over.

📢 Nigerians, what do you think — can the Super Eagles still make it to the World Cup? What must change urgently to make that miracle happen?
Let’s hear from you below! 👇

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