Former Real Madrid and Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez has expressed sadness that Nigeria striker Victor Osimhen would not play in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, claiming that the tournament will be missing some of its best attacking skills without the Super Eagles forward.
Osimhen’s absence comes after Nigeria failed to qualify for the North American competition, putting an end to the country’s dreams after a thrilling CAF qualification campaign that reached the playoff stage.
Nigeria finished second in Group C with 17 points, one point behind South Africa, and advanced to the playoffs, where they defeated Gabon in the semifinals.
However, their season ended in misery after a penalty shootout loss to DR Congo in the final playoff round.
Speaking to La Gazzetta, Benitez mentioned Osimhen as one of numerous high-profile players that he believes would have improved the tournament’s quality.
“Too easy: Kvaratskhelia, first and foremost,” Benitez said. “And then Osimhen too, and not just because Napoli holds a special place in my heart. But I must also add Zieliński and Lewandowski, one of the greatest ever.”
The Spanish coach emphasised that Osimhen’s absence is especially noteworthy given his current form and importance in Nigerian football, characterising him as one of Africa’s top forwards.
Osimhen, who presently plays for Galatasaray, is largely considered as one of the continent’s top attacking players, but he has yet to feature in a World Cup, and Nigeria will also miss the 2022 edition in Qatar.
Benitez also discussed the tournament’s favourites, naming France and Spain as top possibilities because to their squad depth and technical ability.
He emphasised France’s abundance of attacking options and Spain’s developing generation, led by Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams, while also identifying England and Germany as formidable opponents.
The tournament’s first group fixtures have already created early drama, with co-hosts Mexico, Canada, and the United States off to good starts.