Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong has admitted that Nigeria’s qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup no longer lies entirely in their control.
The 32-year-old centre-back was speaking ahead of Nigeria’s must-win encounter against Benin Republic in Uyo, which will conclude their Group C qualifying campaign.
Nigeria, who edged Lesotho 2-1 in Polokwane last week thanks to Ekong’s penalty and Akor Adams debut goal ,must now beat Benin and hope other results go their way to secure a World Cup spot.
“Tomorrow may not be 100% in our hands, but we’ll do our best and win the match,” Ekong told reporters.
“This is our life, our history we’re trying to create. We all want to be at the World Cup so badly.”
Ekong in Super Eagles training ahead of the clash with Benin Republic at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium. Photo Credit: The Athletic Images
For Nigeria to qualify directly, Rwanda must defeat South Africa while the Super Eagles must also beat Benin.
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If South Africa win, Nigeria would then need a four-goal victory margin to have any chance of reaching the play-offs as one of the best runners-up.
Despite the challenge, Ekong urged fans to rally behind the team at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium.
“It’s a very difficult job, but everyone has to step up,” he added.
“We can’t win this alone, the players, the coach, and the fans all share the responsibility.”
Victor Osimehn has scored 3 goals with 1 assist in the World Cup qualifies and will lead the line against Benin. Photo Credit: The Athletic Images
Ekong, who featured in Nigeria’s AFCON 2023 final defeat to Ivory Coast, stressed that the squad remains motivated and united.
“We’ve fought hard to reach this point,” he said. “Whatever happens, we’ll make peace with that. But we’ll give everything.”
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The Super Eagles last beat Benin 3-0 in Uyo and will hope to reproduce that form in front of a packed home crowd tonight.
