'Every player dreams of the World Cup' - Ndidi says Super Eagles are not demoralised before Poland clash

Super Eagles captain Wilfred Ndidi has insisted that Nigeria remain highly motivated ahead of Wednesday's international friendly against Poland despite missing out on qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Nigeria missed out on a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after suffering a playoff defeat to DR Congo in Morocco in November 2025.

Similarly, Poland will also be absent from the global showpiece after falling to Sweden in the World Cup playoffs in March 2026.

The midfielder admitted that every player dreams of representing their country on football's biggest stage but stressed that the disappointment of failing to qualify has not affected the team's determination.

Speaking ahead of the clash in Warsaw, Ndidi said the players are focused on delivering a strong performance and giving Nigerian supporters something to celebrate.

"Every footballer dreams of representing their country at the World Cup,” Ndidi told reporters via Sport.

“We didn't achieve it, but that doesn't mean we arrived in Warsaw demotivated. On the contrary, we want to show our best side to bring some joy to our fans.”

Nigeria head into the encounter in good spirits after retaining the Unity Cup title with a convincing 3-0 victory over Jamaica in London.

The encounter offers another opportunity for Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle to assess his squad as preparations continue for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.