Sports
By Austin Akabueze, reporting from Mercedes Benz Stadium, Atlanta, Ga.
THIS reporter, his wife, and a smattering of Nigerians, were on hand to cheer the Democratic Republic of Congo into the round of 32 of the current 2026 World Cup.
While the Nigerians were on hand to support their fellow Africans, the pain of the failure of the Super Eagles was palpable on their faces.
In their hushed and demoralizing tones, many bemoaned the absence of Nigeria in what has been turned into a carnival in the ATL. Yes, it has been a festival of sort, with nationals of participating nations showcasing their national colors, cultures, and music.
The face of defeat was unbearable, and to the Nigerians, with many getting ‘younger’, like this reporter, this will likely be their last opportunity to witness a championship of this size in the United States.
They can attend future championships in other countries but the possibility of attending one here is next to zero.
The passion showed by the huge Congolese crowd, who donned their famous blue national jerseys, despite the high cost of tickets, was a beauty to watch.
And to the few Nigerians, who braved the high ticket prices to attend, it is sure a missed opportunity of a lifetime.
Congratulations to Democratic Republic of Congo for doing Africa proud with their stunning 30-minute turn-around, and to the Nigerians, your country, as usual, has let you down. Nigeria has no business failing to qualify as one of Africa’s ten representatives. It is a horror show, to say the least.
A.I
June 29, 2026
Tags: Austin Akabueze