Confederation of African Football (CAF) President Patrice Motsepe has described the 2026 FIFA World Cup as “incomplete” without the participation of Nigeria and Cameroon, stressing that both nations remain pillars of African football.
Speaking while reflecting on Africa’s campaign at the tournament, Motsepe said the absence of the two football powerhouses was deeply felt despite the continent’s strong representation at the expanded competition.
“I keep telling people that a World Cup for me without Nigeria, Cameroon, and many others is incomplete because Nigerians and Cameroonians have all made us proud,” Motsepe said.
Nigeria’s Super Eagles and Cameroon’s Indomitable Lions both failed to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, marking a significant setback for two of Africa’s most successful football nations. Their absence came despite the tournament featuring a record number of African representatives.
Motsepe reaffirmed CAF’s commitment to strengthening football development across the continent, expressing confidence that Nigeria, Cameroon, and other traditional African giants will return stronger in future FIFA World Cup competitions.
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