Nigeria missed the World Cup in 2022 when Argentina won it
Argentina’s chances of winning the 2026 FIFA World Cup have gained momentum after the Super Eagles of Nigeria were eliminated in the playoffs by the Democratic Republic of Congo on penalties.
History shows that in all three editions where Argentina won the World Cup, Nigeria did not feature in the tournament.
Watch highlights of Nigeria’s penalty shootout defeat to DR Congo
This occurred during the 1978, 1986, and 2022 World Cups, where the Super Eagles were absent.
Reacting to this fact, some fans believe history is likely to repeat itself, suggesting that La Albiceleste could be on their way to clinching the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Some loyal fans of football great Lionel Messi suggested that it would be an iconic moment in history, cementing the former Blaugrana attacker’s legacy as the Greatest of All Time if it comes to pass.
Other fans countered by pointing out that Argentina has never won the Mundial back-to-back in their history, nor did they win it during other times Nigeria failed to qualify, making it uncertain whether this pattern will hold.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Read the comments below:
Truth is, either with or without Nigeria qualification, Argentina still a huge favorite…they play more like a team and with Messi as a leader, it’s a clear boost for the boys
— AFOLABI 🐐 (@AfolabiGreen) November 17, 2025
When Messi wins the World Cup, Nigerians win.
I bet you Messi has more genuine admirers and fans in Nigeria than in Argentina.— ALLERGICTOCORRUPTION⭐️ (@Newben82) November 17, 2025
We didn’t qualify 2006, did they win it then ??
— Six (@Nwibani1) November 17, 2025
CR7 fans will not be happy with this statistic.
— NOA (@nikabazie) November 17, 2025
Without Nigeria 🇳🇬, Argentina 🇦🇷 is nothing. Always remember that
— ITzD (@CrackedUno) November 18, 2025
Defending champions 💪 once again! pic.twitter.com/tmxyOjXXud
— Moses Mwangi Waweru (@mozmale) November 17, 2025
Let history repeat
— Clement Bemdoo (@Benex1_2) November 18, 2025
Argentina after hearing Nigeria still have a chance of coming to the World Cup. pic.twitter.com/RyypULIbsG
— lobistars (@john322226) October 14, 2025
Na Messi go win ham again
— Alao Temitope🇧🇪 (@temit21906) November 17, 2025
Ronaldo fans tears x2?
There like mad— Akôredē (@krey76) November 17, 2025
Argentina is cooking something big .
Where is Messi? Season 2 pic.twitter.com/oWLvxOTwF2— Mallangri Dbobozy 🌍 (@mallangri) November 17, 2025
SB/JE
Meanwhile, watch the feature about Swedru All Blacks’ journey from the Division One to the GPL below
