2026 World Cup: Players of Nigerian descent representing other countries

Nigeria are absent from the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico after failing to qualify, extending their absence from football’s biggest stage into a second straight edition as the tournament begins.

The Super Eagles’ qualification campaign ended in heartbreak after a 4-3 penalty shootout defeat to DR Congo in the African play-off final, following a 1-1 draw after extra time.

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) later lodged a formal protest over alleged irregularities involving player documentation, but FIFA dismissed the appeal and confirmed DR Congo’s place at the tournament.

Despite that disappointment, Nigeria will still have a strong presence at the World Cup through players of Nigerian descent who will represent other nations across Europe, Africa and North America.

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With all 48 participating countries confirming their final 26-man squads for the tournament running from June 11 to July 19, several teams will rely on players with Nigerian heritage in key roles.

Sporting Tribune gives a breakdown of players of Nigerian descent representing other countries.

Bukayo Saka (England)

Saka, born in London to Yoruba Nigerian parents, has established himself as a central figure and remains one of England’s key attacking outlets. He is expected to play a major role at the tournament.

Noni Madueke (England)

Madueke, of Igbo Nigerian heritage, continues to offer England width and direct attacking threat. His pace and creativity give the squad another option in advanced areas.

Eberechi Eze (England)

Eze, also born to Igbo Nigerian parents, adds technical quality and attacking depth. His ability in one-on-one situations makes him a useful option in England’s forward line.

Folarin Balogun (United States)

Balogun leads the Nigerian connection in the United States squad. Born in the United States to Nigerian parents, the striker has become an important attacking figure heading into the tournament.

Michael Olise (France)

Olise, who qualifies through his Nigerian father, is part of France’s attacking setup. His creativity and movement have made him a regular feature in the national team plans.

Jamal Musiala (Germany)

Musiala, born to a Nigerian-British father and German mother, is one of Germany’s key midfield talents. He is widely regarded as one of the most influential young players in world football.

Felix Nmecha (Germany)

Nmecha, also of Nigerian descent, brings strength and versatility to Germany’s midfield options. He provides depth in a squad built around control and transition play.

David Alaba (Austria)

Alaba, son of a Yoruba Nigerian father from Ogun State, brings experience and leadership to Austria. He remains one of their most important senior players.

Carney Chukwuemeka (Austria)

Chukwuemeka, born in Vienna to Nigerian parents, offers Austria midfield flexibility. He is expected to play a supporting role in their tournament campaign.

Manuel Akanji (Switzerland)

Akanji, born to a Nigerian father, anchors Switzerland’s defence. His consistency and experience make him central to their backline structure.

Noah Okafor (Switzerland)

Okafor, who also has Nigerian roots, provides attacking options for Switzerland. His pace and direct style remain key assets.

Antonio Nusa (Norway)

Nusa, born to a Nigerian father, is part of Norway’s attacking unit. His speed and dribbling ability give them a threat in wide areas.

Tani Oluwaseyi (Canada)

Oluwaseyi, born in Nigeria before moving to Canada, is part of the Canadian squad. He has become a regular option in attack.

Promise David (Canada)

David, born to Nigerian parents in Canada, adds further depth to their forward options and has been integrated into the national setup.

Owen Goodman (Canada)

Goodman, who also has Nigerian heritage through his mother, completes Canada’s Nigerian-linked trio. He provides additional goalkeeping depth.

Ime Okon (South Africa)

Okon, born to a Nigerian father, is part of South Africa’s defensive setup and he continues to develop as a young international defender.