The France-based winger has been one of Nigeria’s most consistent players since his international debut
Nantes winger Moses Simon has admitted to being devastated after missing the 2018 and 2022 FIFA World Cups, Soccernet.ng reported.
Simon was a key figure for the Super Eagles and played in all qualifying matches as Nigeria qualified for the 2018 World Cup in Russia.
Head coach Gernot Rohr then named the flying attacker in Nigeria’s provisional squad for the tournament, with plans to include him in the final squad for the tournament.
However, Simon was injured and missed the party as the Super Eagles were eliminated from Russia 2018 in the group stage.
After losing to Ghana on aggregate in the play-offs, Nigeria missed out on qualifying for the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, and Simon missed out on the chance to make his Mundial debut.
The former KAA Gent star revealed that he was saddened and devastated by two unfortunate experiences.
“In 2018, I was really sad at the beginning,” Simon told FIFA.com, according to Cafonline.
“I played all the qualifying games, started and finished [games], but ended up not making it to the World Cup, which I wouldn’t wish on my worst enemy. I was really shocked. I received it. But not anymore.
“Right now I’m like, ‘Okay, I thank God for everything because I know there’s a reason for it.’ That gave me the motivation to keep working hard.” .
“I want to play in the next World Cup. That’s my dream.” I have no choice but to do my best and work hard. If the coach calls me, fine. If he doesn’t and calls someone else, I’ll be happy to support him. ”
Simon, who helped Nigeria win bronze at the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations, has been named in the Super Eagles’ 40-man reserve squad for the 2023 tournament, which starts next month.
The striker could become one of Nigeria’s most influential attackers as the Super Eagles aim for their fourth continental championship title.
