William Troost-Ekong: Super Eagles' World Cup Miss Demands Revival Plan

William Troost-Ekong, a former captain of the Super Eagles, has expressed profound disappointment over Nigeria's inability to secure a spot at the FIFA World Cup 2026. He stated that this significant setback should be viewed as a crucial learning experience for the national team, emphasizing the need for the Super Eagles to implement vital changes to reclaim their place on football's grandest platform.

Nigeria failed to qualify for the ongoing tournament after suffering a penalty shootout defeat against the Democratic Republic of Congo during the final stage of the African play-offs. The Super Eagles' most recent participation in the global football showpiece was at the 2018 FIFA World Cup held in Russia.

Speaking to Supersport, Troost-Ekong highlighted the inherent motivation within the squad. "I think the motivation has always been there," he remarked. "All of us are incredibly eager to see Nigeria back at the World Cup, and missing out again only increases that desire. I would have loved to see Nigeria there because, when you watch the African teams performing so well, you cannot help but think Nigeria would also have put in a strong performance. Looking at the quality and talent within the squad, I believe they would have been ready. Many of the players have matured, and some also gained valuable experience at the 2018 World Cup."

He reiterated this sentiment, stating, "I think the motivation has always been there. All of us are incredibly eager to see Nigeria back at the World Cup, and missing out again only increases that desire. I would have loved to see Nigeria there because, when you watch the African teams performing so well, you cannot help but think Nigeria would also have put in a strong performance. Looking at the quality and talent within the squad, I believe they would have been ready. Many of the players have matured, and some also gained valuable experience at the 2018 World Cup."

Troost-Ekong strongly believes that the disappointment stemming from consecutive qualification failures must serve as an impetus for the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to formulate and execute a clear, sustainable strategy. This plan, he insists, is crucial to give the Super Eagles the best possible chance of making a return to the World Cup stage by 2030.

He further elaborated on the need for introspection: "It would have been wonderful to see them compete, but I also think this serves as an important lesson. We need to reflect on our preparation and identify what needs to change in order to reach the next level ahead of the next World Cup. The players will continue working hard, sharing ideas, and doing everything possible to improve. I have never felt there was a lack of motivation or commitment from the players. I simply believe there are several areas that need to change, and this time those changes will be essential if the team is to succeed."

Echoing his earlier comments, Troost-Ekong added, "It would have been wonderful to see them compete, but I also think this serves as an important lesson. We need to reflect on our preparation and identify what needs to change in order to reach the next level ahead of the next World Cup. The players will continue working hard, sharing ideas, and doing everything possible to improve. I have never felt there was a lack of motivation or commitment from the players. I simply believe there are several areas that need to change, and this time those changes will be essential if the team is to succeed."