Ola Aina Slams Gernot Rohr Over 2018 World Cup Snub, Eyes Redemption In 2026

Super Eagles defender Ola Aina has openly criticized former national team coach Gernot Rohr for omitting him from Nigeria’s final squad for the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia.

Rohr, now managing the Benin Republic’s national team (the Cheetahs), had given Aina his international debut in 2017. The Nottingham Forest player featured briefly as a substitute during Nigeria’s 1-0 win against Zambia, a match that confirmed the team’s qualification for the tournament.

Although he played a role in the qualifying campaign, Aina was dropped—alongside midfielder Mikel Agu—from the final 23-man list. At the time, he was one of the options for the left-back position, competing with Elderson Echiejile and Bryan Idowu.

Speaking candidly on the 90s Baby Show, Aina voiced his disappointment over the snub:

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

Aina also missed the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, following Nigeria’s failure to qualify after losing a playoff to Ghana’s Black Stars. Now focused on the 2026 tournament, Aina is determined to be part of the squad.

“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.”

Currently, the Super Eagles are in fourth place in Group C of the CAF qualifiers, with seven points from six matches—six points behind group leaders South Africa. With four games remaining, Nigeria must win all to have any hope of reaching the World Cup, which will be hosted across the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

Aina remains optimistic:

“This 2026 World Cup, I need to be there. I think we can do it.”

Nigeria will continue their qualification journey in September, hosting Rwanda in Uyo before an away clash with South Africa. In the reverse fixtures, the Super Eagles beat Rwanda 2-0 in Kigali and drew 1-1 with South Africa at home.