FIFA has listed Nigeria alongside Italy and eight other countries expected to battle for qualification to the 2030 FIFA World Cup after missing the recently concluded 2026 tournament.
In a statement released on Thursday, the world football governing body identified Nigeria, Italy, Denmark, Poland, Hungary, Romania, Cameroon, Chile, Peru and Costa Rica as nations eager to return to football’s biggest stage at the centenary edition of the World Cup.
FIFA noted that the Super Eagles, who have reached the Round of 16 in three of their six World Cup appearances, have now missed the last two tournaments but possess enough talent to qualify if they achieve greater stability and consistency.
Four-time world champions Italy were also highlighted after failing to qualify for the World Cup for a third consecutive time, while the other nations were recognised as established football teams seeking a return to the global tournament in 2030.
