Super Eagles WCQ Hopes Dwindle as NFF Calls Out Dessers, Troost-Ekong

Following a disappointing 1-1 draw against South Africa in a crucial 2026 World Cup qualifier, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has publicly criticized two key players, striker Cyriel Dessers and captain William Troost-Ekong. The result, which saw the Super Eagles lose a vital opportunity to strengthen their qualification bid, has led to pointed comments from the federation.

The Super Eagles’ hopes were dented early when Troost-Ekong’s unfortunate own goal in the 25th minute gave South Africa the lead. Although Calvin Bassey’s powerful header leveled the score before halftime, Nigeria could not find a winning goal.

In a post-match statement, the NFF Director of Communications, Dr. Ademola Olajire, singled out Dessers for an “unimpressive game.” The statement criticized the striker for being “too slow to latch onto passes, could not win aerial balls and did little in bringing alive the Nigerian attack.” Dessers was eventually substituted at halftime.

Troost-Ekong also came under fire, with the NFF’s statement noting that his own goal “diminished” the team’s fighting spirit and gave their opponents a significant advantage. This public criticism from the federation highlights the growing frustration with the team’s performance, as their path to the 2026 World Cup becomes increasingly narrow.