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Italy, Nigeria among top absentees from World Cup 2026

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 7, 2026, 9:37 AM

Last updated Jun 7, 2026

Italy, Nigeria among top absentees from World Cup 2026

Summary

Italy and Nigeria will miss the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico due to failed qualification campaigns. Italy, a four-time champion, fell short for the third consecutive time, losing to Bosnia and Herzegovina in the playoffs. Nigeria, a strong African contender, also missed out after dropping critical points in qualifiers. Spain's Fermín López is ruled out with a fractured foot, while the Netherlands will be without Xavi Simons, who injured his ACL. Argentina's Alejandro Garnacho faces competition and may not make the squad despite a strong club season.

Source Links

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Status Watch

•Italy fails to qualify for a third straight World Cup.
•Nigeria's Super Eagles miss out after a poor qualifying campaign.
•Fermín López ruled out due to a fractured foot.
•Xavi Simons suffers an ACL injury before the tournament.
•Alejandro Garnacho may miss Argentina's squad amid fierce competition.

Latest Updates

9:37 AMYahoo Sports — World Cup 2026: 5️⃣ big absentees from this summer's tournament

What they're saying

"
Every World Cup creates unforgettable stories, but it also leaves behind major disappointments. Whether through failed qualification, injury or controversial selection calls, some of football’s bigg...
— Yahoo Sports

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