Super Eagles defender Ola Aina has finally spoken out about the bitter disappointment of missing the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia—pointing fingers directly at former Nigeria coach Gernot Rohr.

Aina, who now plays for Nottingham Forest in the English Premier League, reflected on his heartbreak during a candid chat on the 90s Baby Show. The defender, who made his Super Eagles debut under Rohr back in 2017, was left stunned when his name was dropped from Nigeria’s final 23-man squad, despite playing a crucial role in the qualifiers.

“I got shenked in 2018. That manager [Rohr] shenked me. I was supposed to go, but he did rubbish,” Aina admitted with raw emotion.

The painful snub came after Aina helped Nigeria secure qualification, making a substitute appearance in the decisive 1-0 win over Zambia. Despite competing strongly for the left-back spot with Elderson Echiejile and Bryan Idowu, Aina, alongside Mikel Agu, was axed from the squad just before the tournament.

His World Cup heartbreak didn’t end there. Aina also missed out on the 2022 tournament in Qatar after Nigeria crashed out in the playoffs against rivals Ghana. Now, with the 2026 World Cup fast approaching, Aina says it’s all or nothing.

“This 2026, I’m putting all my energy into it. I need to go because if not, I think my World Cup dream is over. I’ll be too old, and I’m not trying to take anyone’s spot by then. Plus, it’s in the U.S.—I need to be there,” Aina said passionately.

Currently, Nigeria’s road to the 2026 World Cup looks shaky. After six games in Group C of the CAF qualifiers, the Super Eagles sit fourth with seven points—six points behind leaders South Africa. With four crucial matches left, Nigeria must win them all to stand a real chance of making it to the grand stage in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

Despite the uphill task, Aina remains confident: “This 2026 World Cup, I need to be there. I think we can do it.”

Nigeria’s qualification battle resumes in September with a must-win clash against Rwanda in Uyo, followed by a daunting trip to face South Africa. The reverse fixtures earlier saw Nigeria beat Rwanda 2-0 away but drop points at home in a 1-1 draw with South Africa.

Can Ola Aina finally fulfil his World Cup dream? Only time will tell.