Sports
W’Cup 2026: Captain Fantastic Ekong preps Eagles for ‘long route’ Play-Offs
Captain William Troost-Ekong has affirmed the Super Eagles’ readiness to give the CAF Play-Off Tournament for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Morocco next month their very best shot even as he appealed for patience and unwavering support from Nigerians as the team continues its quest for World Cup qualification, following Tuesday’s emphatic 4–0 victory over the Benin Republic.
“We are quite happy to have that opportunity, it is a long route but it is a route after all,” the 32-year-old Ekong said in an official NFF statement.
“For us, we will remain strong and tough and ready to confront every challenge on our way as we search for the ticket to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
“It was a wonderful team effort on Tuesday evening. Everyone contributed; each person played their part. If the other match had gone in favour, we would be with the automatic ticket now. But that’s life. You take what you get and run with it, and make the best of it,” he noted.
In the CAF Play-offs, Nigeria will take on Gabon’s Palancas Negras in a ‘first semi-final’ on Thursday, 13th November, with Cameroon taking on the Democratic Republic of Congo in the ‘second semi-final’ on Friday, 14th November. The two winners clash on Sunday, 16th November in the ‘final’, with the winner to proceed to the Intercontinental Play-offs scheduled for the Mexican cities of Guadalajara and Monterrey in March next year.
At the International Play-off Tournament, six teams will battle for two tickets. The teams are Africa’s winner, Bolivia, New Caledonia, winner of Asian play-off between Iraq and the United Arab Emirates, and two of Jamaica, Costa Rica and Panama.
Meanwhile, defender with Saudi side, Al-Kholood Club defender who has already earned an impressive 82 International Caps, underlined the significance of wearing the Nigeria’s colours , stressing it comes with immense pressure and responsibility.
“It’s not easy to wear this shirt — it’s very heavy,” he noted at the presser following Tuesday’s win in Uyo. “Many players stood up and took responsibility today, and that’s what we need. Everyone is trying, giving their best. It’s not always perfect, but we’re united in our effort to make Nigerians proud.”
Yet Ekong condemned criticisms often directed at the Super Eagles, insisting that such negativity can affect morale. He pointed to Frank Onyeka’s late goal and Victor Osimhen’s standout display as proof of the team’s depth and determination.
“Frank came off the bench and made an impact — that shows the strength and unity of this squad. Everyone wants to contribute, and that competition keeps us sharp,” he added.
Reflecting on Nigeria’s recent challenges, Ekong admitted that the frequent coaching changes and limited training time have disrupted consistency. However, he expressed optimism that stability and time under the current coach will bring improvement.
“We’ve had about four coaches recently, and it’s been hard to build rhythm. But with more time together, we’ll get stronger. The boys are working hard, and the results will show,” he assured.
With major fixtures ahead — including next month’s playoffs and the 2026 AFCON — Ekong urged fans to remain patient and supportive as the team continues to rebuild confidence and cohesion.
“We just need a bit of patience. Mistakes will happen, but no one should be afraid to try. We feel the support of over 270 million Nigerians, and that drives us. We’ll keep improving — the work is far from over,” he concluded.
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