Former Super Eagles midfielder Friday Ekpo has delivered a scathing assessment of Nigeria’s performance in their disappointing 1-1 draw against Zimbabwe, warning that the team is struggling to compete against so-called smaller African nations.
The result, which saw Nigeria drop two crucial points in their World Cup qualification campaign, has put their chances of making the 2026 FIFA World Cup in jeopardy.
Speaking in an interview with Brila media, Ekpo did not hold back in his criticism of the current squad.
“African football has progressed significantly. Nigeria still views some of these countries as small, but we need to step up as well. We are struggling to win matches against these teams,” said Ekpo.
His frustration was evident as he questioned Nigeria’s status as a football powerhouse. “We are no longer giants; we have become ants. We cannot hold onto the ball and just pass it sideways. If we do not defeat Bafana Bafana in South Africa, our World Cup qualifying dream is over,” he declared.
Odegbami Slams Troost-Ekong for Costly Error
Nigerian football legend Segun Odegbami also weighed in on the Super Eagles’ struggles, particularly singling out defender William Troost-Ekong for his costly mistake.
Writing in his Vanguard column, Odegbami did not hold back in his criticism of the Al-Kholood defender, calling the moment a defining one for both Ekong’s career and Nigeria’s World Cup hopes.
“Unfortunately, what Ekong did may haunt him for the rest of his life,” Odegbami wrote. “It could be the moment Nigeria lost the opportunity to go to the 2026 World Cup. It could also be his last chance to attend a World Cup. Nigerians, all 250 million of them, will remember this forever.”
Super Eagles Captain Troost-Ekong. Photo Credit: imago
He further analyzed the defensive lapse: “Ekong hesitated, perhaps fearing he might concede a penalty. That hesitation allowed the attacker to break through and score, a moment that left the entire country in disbelief.”
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Super Eagles Face Must-Win Games in September
The pressure is now mounting on head coach Eric Chelle, who experienced a dream start with a 2-0 win over Rwanda in his debut but saw his side falter against Zimbabwe in Uyo.
With Nigeria currently struggling in their group, the Super Eagles will have a chance to redeem themselves when World Cup qualifiers resume in September.
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They face Rwanda on September 3 before traveling to South Africa for a crucial showdown with Bafana Bafana on September 6.
Failure to secure positive results in these fixtures could spell disaster for Nigeria’s World Cup hopes.
