William Troost-Ekong has assured millions of fans that the Super Eagles are fully determined to secure victory when they face South Africa’s Bafana Bafana in a crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying clash in Bloemfontein on Tuesday night.
Ekong, who was voted Player of the Tournament at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast, dismissed suggestions that Nigeria would be relying on their semi-final penalty shootout win over Bafana at that tournament.
“We defeated them at the AFCON, but that is in the past. Both teams have made changes since then. Our approach will be devoid of arrogance; we will play with level heads and go all out for victory,” Ekong said.
“South Africa is a good team that we respect, but our objective remains the same — we want to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.”
Head coach Eric Chelle echoed his captain’s determination, confirming he will field his strongest lineup at the Toyota Stadium.
“We came here for the three points, nothing less. Rwanda was a tough hurdle, but our focus is now on South Africa. We believe this group has the capacity to change the narrative and put Nigeria back in control of Group C.”
Nigeria’s High Commissioner to South Africa, His Excellency Tope Ajayi, also charged the team to rise to the occasion after addressing them at their final training session.
“I have confidence that we will win. Many South Africans also believe Nigeria will win. We should play with courage and confidence. Just as I told the Super Falcons before they returned to the Olympics, I see the Super Eagles at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and it will be so.”
The crunch qualifier kicks off at 6 pm local time (5 pm Nigeria time) at the Toyota Stadium, Bloemfontein.
