Super Eagles midfielder Alex Iwobi has reacted for the first time since Nigeria’s painful elimination from the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying playoffs, following a dramatic penalty shootout defeat to DR Congo in Rabat on Sunday.

The result ensured the Super Eagles will miss the World Cup for a second consecutive qualification campaign, leaving players and fans disappointed. 

Iwobi, who featured in the tense encounter at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, took to Instagram on Tuesday to express his feelings and encourage his teammates despite the setback.

"You win some, you lose some, not every dream becomes a reality. Life don’t stop, we use the experience to strive and push on to be better. Proud of my brothers!” the former Arsenal star wrote on his Instagram story.

Nigeria had taken the lead early through Frank Onyeka before DR Congo equalised. 

After a 1–1 draw across 120 minutes, the match was settled on penalties, with the Leopards winning 4–3 to progress to the intercontinental playoff.

Iwobi’s message comes at a critical moment for the squad, as they look to regroup and move past the disappointment.

The Fulham star remains confident that the team will learn from the experience and return stronger in future competitions.

Wale Adejumo

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