With the FIFA World Cup expanding to include 48 teams, of which ten slots are designated for African nations, numerous fans and analysts were hoping that the Super Eagles would successfully qualify for the 2026 tournament set to take place in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
The Super Eagles missed out on World Cup qualification after a thrilling 4-3 defeat in a penalty shootout against the Democratic Republic of Congo during the African playoff final last November.
Former Black Stars captain Gyan characterized the situation as unfortunate while reflecting on the competitive rivalry between the two prominent West African nations.
In a discussion on SuperSport’s Soccer Africa, Gyan said, “When discussing the two nations, Ivory Coast is also quite close to Ghana, but the language barrier sets them apart.
“Although Ghana and Nigeria do not share a border, Ivory Coast and Nigeria are our brothers; however, in terms of competitiveness, we share a more rivalrous relationship with Nigeria. It is a healthy rivalry.
“It’s quite unfortunate. Nigeria possesses a strong team. The healthy rivalry between our two nations is remarkable.”
Nigeria has now experienced back-to-back absences from the World Cup for the first time since their inaugural participation in 1994.