Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong has praised the team’s focus and determination as they prepare for two must-win matches in their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign.
Nigeria will host Rwanda at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium on Saturday in a high-stakes encounter before travelling to South Africa for another crucial clash three days later.
Speaking to NFF TV, Troost-Ekong expressed confidence in the team’s mindset going into the decisive phase of the qualifiers.
“The boys are very focused. We are looking forward to the game on Saturday,” the defender said. “Now it’s going to be an important set of games for us beginning from Saturday. We know the gravity of these games and we will focus on preparation.”
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The Super Eagles, who have secured just one win in their last six qualifiers, sit fourth in Group C with seven points. Group leaders South Africa top the table with 13 points, followed closely by Rwanda and Benin Republic, both on eight points. Lesotho are fifth with six points, while Zimbabwe remain bottom on four.
Nigeria’s World Cup hopes could also benefit from a potential points deduction for South Africa, following reports they fielded an ineligible player against Lesotho in March. However, Troost-Ekong insisted the team must take full control of their own fate by securing victories in all remaining matches.
The September fixtures against Rwanda and South Africa will be followed by October ties away to Lesotho and at home against Benin Republic.
The 2026 World Cup will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, with African teams competing for a record nine automatic qualification slots.
