Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong has spoken directly to Nigerians as the country prepares for decisive 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches. The Nigerian team will battle Rwanda in Uyo before travelling to South Africa for another crucial encounter in Bloemfontein. Both games will determine whether the Super Eagles stay in contention for a place at the World Cup.
Nigeria currently sits in fourth position in Group C with seven points after six matches, making victories in both fixtures non-negotiable. All 23 invited players have arrived in camp, and they held their first complete training session on Wednesday evening at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, which happens to be Ekong’s home state ground.
The Al-Kholood defender, who was the first to report to camp, expressed gratitude to Nigerians for their unwavering support. He urged fans to fill the stadium and continue to back the team with prayers and encouragement. According to him, the unity between the team and the supporters is key to their confidence heading into the matches.
“The boys are very focused, and we are looking forward to Saturday’s game,” Ekong noted. “I want to thank the fans for their love and support. We need them more than ever—come to the stadium, keep praying for us, and stand with us as one Nigeria.”
The captain admitted the pressure surrounding the qualifiers, stressing that the players understand the magnitude of the task ahead. “It is going to be a very important set of games,” he explained. “We know what is at stake, and our preparation will be the source of our confidence.”
Ekong’s leadership will be closely watched, especially after his error in March gave Zimbabwe a late equaliser that cost Nigeria two points. He has since taken responsibility and promised to remain sharper in these decisive fixtures against Rwanda and South Africa, where there is little margin for error.
Other senior players, including Alex Iwobi, Bright Osayi-Samuel, and Ola Aina, have also echoed similar appeals to Nigerians, assuring that the squad is ready and motivated to fight for qualification. They urged fans not only to support the team in person but also to stay united behind the players throughout the campaign.
The Super Eagles will continue training sessions in Uyo until Saturday’s showdown against Rwanda before jetting out to South Africa for the second leg of the qualifiers. With everything on the line, the team hopes to reignite their World Cup dream and restore confidence among millions of Nigerian supporters.
