Advantage Super Eagles? FIFA planning to overhaul World Cup format after 2026 Americas edition

The Super Eagles of Nigeria have failed to qualify for the last two editions of the FIFA World Cup.

In 2022, they fell short of claiming one of Africa’s five available slots. For the upcoming edition, FIFA increased the number of participating teams to 48, ensuring that every continent received additional berths.

For the 2026 World Cup set to be hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada—Africa was granted nine direct slots plus an additional opportunity via the inter-confederation playoffs.

Dr Congo celebration during the 2026 FIFA World Cup Playoffs between Nigeria and Dr Congo — Nigeria and Dr Congo players. Photo by Shengolpixs/IMAGO

Nigeria was thrown a lifeline through those playoffs, but they were ultimately beaten to the finish line by DR Congo. The Congolese side eventually qualified, bringing the total number of African representatives to ten. Despite this being the first 48-team Mundial in history, the Super Eagles failed to secure a spot even with the expanded format.

Nigeria must now look toward the 2030 edition. Given their failure to qualify for two consecutive tournaments, fans are understandably skeptical. However, FIFA’s evolving plans for 2030 and beyond could offer the Super Eagles a significant boost.

Tolu Arokodare, Simon Moses and Wilfred Ndidi of Nigeria during the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match between the Super Eagles of Nigeria and the Amavubi of Rwanda — Photo by IMAGO

FIFA Plotting a Further Increase in World Cup Teams

The world football governing body has only just increased the participant count from 32 to 48. However, rumors suggest they may be plotting an even larger tournament for 2030.

According to The Touchline, “FIFA’s dream is to transform the 2030 tournament into a 64-team competition.” That edition is set to be co-hosted by Morocco, Portugal, and Spain—nations that possess the infrastructure necessary to accommodate 64 footballing delegations.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino, and Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) President Amaju Melvin Pinnick (L-R) watch the 2018 FIFA World Cup — FIFA President Gianni Infantino, and former NFF President Amaju Melvin Pinnick. Photo by Imago

While a jump to 64 teams seems massive, it remains a distinct possibility. If this expansion comes to fruition, all of FIFA’s confederations would receive significantly more slots.

This would make it much easier for traditional powerhouses or frequent contenders like Nigeria, Italy, Poland, Cameroon, and Denmark to secure qualification.

Nonetheless, FIFA’s immediate focus remains on ensuring the success of the 2026 edition. Challenges persist, with various stakeholders raising concerns over ticket pricing, travel restrictions, and the geopolitical tensions between the US and Iran.