Nigeria vs DR Congo: Iwobi breaks silence after Super Eagles World Cup disappointment

Alex Iwobi has finally spoken after Nigeria’s heartbreaking failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, addressing fans with a calm and emotional message following the Super Eagles’ dramatic penalty shootout defeat to DR Congo.

The Fulham midfielder, one of the most experienced players in the squad, urged supporters to stay strong as he reflected on a painful night for Nigerian football.

Iwobi, who featured in Nigeria’s 4-1 semi-final win over Gabon, also started in the decisive playoff against DR Congo but struggled to find rhythm before being substituted in the 77th minute. Nigeria then spent most of extra time defending, creating very little going forward until the match went to penalties.

Despite Stanley Nwabali saving two of DR Congo’s spot-kicks, the Super Eagles faltered when it mattered most.

Calvin Bassey, Moses Simon, and Semi Ajayi all missed from twelve yards, handing the Congolese a 4-3 victory in the shootout and ending Nigeria’s World Cup aspirations.

Iwobi, who previously played at the 2018 World Cup, was visibly shaken by the outcome, as Nigeria’s experienced names, including himself, William Troost-Ekong, and Wilfred Ndidi, could not guide the younger squad members to qualification.

After a day of silence, Iwobi finally addressed the heartbreak on Instagram. His message was short but telling:

“You win some, you lose some,” he wrote, before adding, “Not every dream becomes a reality. Life doesn't stop; we use the experience to strive and push on to be better. Proud of my brothers!”

The Fulham midfielder’s words have quickly circulated among fans, many praising his leadership and honesty during a difficult moment for Nigerian football.

Iwobi has now shifted his attention back to Premier League duties, as Fulham prepare to face AFC Sunderland at Craven Cottage this weekend, hoping to channel the pain of Nigeria’s elimination into a strong performance for his club.