Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong has issued a rallying cry to his teammates ahead of Nigeria’s crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Lesotho, urging unity, focus, and belief as the team prepares for one of their most important games in recent years.
Speaking to NFF TV from the team’s camp in Polokwane, South Africa, Troost-Ekong said every player in the squad deserves their spot and has a key role to play as the Eagles look to secure a vital win on Friday.
Troost-Ekong backs squad depth and team spirit
“Everyone who’s here deserves to be here. They’re doing well at their clubs, and the coach needs them,” the Nigeria captain said. “I’m happy that we have everyone here today. Now we’re focused on final preparations before the game on Friday.”
Ekong praised the spirit of the group and called on the younger players to seize their opportunity after the Super Eagles camp was hit by a series of injuries.
“The boys (who are injured) have contributed tremendously to this team,” he said. “But it’s also a chance for others to step up and fill those voids. There’s no question about their quality or commitment. We miss those guys, but they’re supporting us from a distance along with 270 million Nigerians.”
Super Eagles ready for high-stakes showdown
Nigeria face Lesotho in a must-win encounter at the Peter Mokaba Stadium on Friday, knowing that only victory will keep their qualification hopes alive.
Ekong and his teammates currently sit third in Group C, three points behind South Africa, with just two matches remaining.
His leadership will surely be vital in steadying the ship amid mounting pressure, and as training intensifies in Polokwane, the focus is on execution and mentality.
Troost-Ekong emphasised the need for collective effort: “Everyone is welcome, and everyone will have to contribute to make sure we get the result.”
The experienced centre-back will once again anchor Nigeria’s defence, alongside Calvin Bassey, with Stanley Nwabali in goal and Victor Osimhen expected to lead the attack in Friday’s fixture.
Nigeria’s World Cup qualification hopes hinge on the outcome of this double-header against Lesotho and Benin.
Failure to win could leave the Super Eagles facing the same heartbreak they suffered in 2022 when they missed out on the tournament in Qatar.
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