Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong has praised the team’s focus and determination as they prepare for two crucial 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and South Africa. Nigeria face Rwanda on Saturday at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium before traveling to South Africa three days later.
The Eagles have only one win in their last six games and currently sit fourth in Group C with seven points. South Africa lead the group with 13 points, while Rwanda and Benin Republic follow with eight each. Lesotho have six points, and Zimbabwe are bottom with four.
Nigeria’s qualification hopes may also be boosted by a possible points deduction for South Africa, who fielded an ineligible player against Lesotho in March. Still, Troost-Ekong insists the team must take charge of their own destiny.
“The boys are very focused. We know the gravity of these games and we will focus on preparation,” the captain told NFF TV. He stressed the importance of starting strong against Rwanda.
After the September fixtures, Nigeria will round off their campaign in October with games against Lesotho away and Benin Republic at home, matches that could decide their World Cup fate.