Did the Super Eagles deserve to lose the African World Cup Qualifier Play-off against DR Congo? And is it time for the NFF to fire coach Eric Chelle? This episode of 'Beyond The Playbook' dives deep into the Nigeria vs DR Congo #WCQ final in Rabat, Morocco. We break down the tactical errors, the defining moments, and the penalty shootout drama that cost the Super Eagles a place in the intercontinental playoff for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. We analyze the heartbreaking World Cup Qualifier performance, Nigeria’s tactical setup under Eric Chelle, and the future of the Super Eagles program. Then, we switch gears to celebrate Nigerian excellence! We discuss the major nominations for the upcoming CAF Player of the Year Awards, featuring top talents like Victor Osimhen, Rasheedat Ajibade, and goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie.

On this edition of the podcast, veteran sports journalist Rotimi Akindele joins the ‘Beyond The Playbook’ crew as they take a closer look at the Super Falcons’ modest qualification for the 2026 WAFCON, the ongoing NFF mismanagement saga, Osimhen’s omission from the FIFPro XI, and much more.

Sports journalist and influencer Pooja joins the show to discuss Arsenal’s impressive rise in the 2024/25 season, their chances of winning the Premier League or the Champions League, and why the media seems to love hating the Gunners. We also examine the growing gulf between the Nigerian Professional Football League (NPFL) and the South African League, following Mamelodi Sundowns’ emphatic demolition of NPFL champions Remo Stars.

In this week’s edition of the Beyond The Playbook Podcast, we explore how betting and staking have shaped football followership — and the personal toll it can take. Our guest shares a jaw-dropping story of losing ₦3 million in a single day through betting. We also discuss the Super Eagles’ second chance at World Cup qualification through next month’s playoffs and the team’s growing reliance on Victor Osimhen.

Featuring Femi Farawe, Suo Chapelle, and Kelvin Everett, we take into account the Super Eagles’ bid to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup as Group C winners and the challenges they’ve had to endure. We go beyond the headlines to explore what went wrong, who’s responsible, and where Nigerian football goes from here.