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Former Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong has described Nigeria’s failure to qualify for the FIFA World Cup 2026 as a major disappointment.
Troost-Ekong said the setback should serve as an important lesson for the team, insisting the Super Eagles must make the necessary adjustments to return to football’s biggest stage.
The Super Eagles missed out on the ongoing tournament after suffering a penalty shootout defeat to the Democratic Republic of Congo in the final of the African play-offs.
Nigeria’s most recent appearance at the global showpiece came at the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia.
Troost-Ekong Rallies Super Eagles
“I think the motivation has always been there,” Troost-Ekong,” told Supersport.
“All of us are incredibly eager to see Nigeria back at the World Cup, and missing out again only increases that desire.”
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“I would have loved to see Nigeria there because, when you watch the African teams performing so well, you cannot help but think Nigeria would also have put in a strong performance.”
“Looking at the quality and talent within the squad, I believe they would have been ready. Many of the players have matured, and some also gained valuable experience at the 2018 World Cup.”
NFF Must Implement Sustainable Plan
Troost-Ekong insisted that the disappointment of successive qualification failures must inspire the NFF to implement a clear and sustainable plan that will give the Super Eagles the best chance of returning to football’s biggest stage in 2030.
“It would have been wonderful to see them compete, but I also think this serves as an important lesson,” added Troost-Ekong.
“We need to reflect on our preparation and identify what needs to change in order to reach the next level ahead of the next World Cup.
“The players will continue working hard, sharing ideas, and doing everything possible to improve.
“I have never felt there was a lack of motivation or commitment from the players. I simply believe there are several areas that need to change, and this time those changes will be essential if the team is to succeed.”
By Adeboye Amosu
3 Comments
The shakeup must start from the NFF because that is the corner stone of the problem besetting Nigerian football. For years this urgly trend of not paying players their entitlement duly has been there. Today everyone is saying if Oshimen was that good why didn’t he take Nigeria to the world cup but theyve fortten that SE did not train before the congo game due to non payment of accumulated match bonus As long as same people continue to stay in office we shouldn’t be surprised if Nigeria miss out again next time.. I dont see the cabal in NFF changing in response to the cry of Nigerians because if u check they seem to put their selfish interest far above national interest. Nothing good will change in our football unless the board of the NFF is changed. God cannot lie. The bible says if the foundation be rotten what can the righteous do
I’m surprised that these NFF pipo have not been sacked yet.
Can someone please sack them soon? Today, if possible?
We really need to sack these guys.
This Ekong guy, was one of the guy that give our world cup dreams away. very average player.