NFF Singles Out Dessers, Troost-Ekong After Super Eagles’ Draw With South Africa
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has openly criticized two Super Eagles stars, Cyriel Dessers and captain William Troost-Ekong, following Nigeria’s disappointing 1-1 draw against South Africa in their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier on Tuesday.
The Eagles, who needed all three points to boost their qualification chances, fell behind in the 25th minute when Troost-Ekong accidentally turned the ball into his own net, leaving goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali stranded.
Nigeria, however, found an equalizer just before halftime through a Calvin Bassey header, but the momentum was never fully regained.
In a post-match statement, NFF Director of Communications, Dr Ademola Olajire, criticized Dessers for failing to rise to the occasion.
“Cyriel Dessers, who had an unimpressive game in Uyo where he was a substitute that was substituted, did not have a better game as he was too slow to latch onto passes, could not win aerial balls and did little in bringing alive the Nigerian attack,” the statement read.
Troost-Ekong was also faulted for his costly own goal, which the federation said diminished the team’s fighting spirit at a crucial point in the game.
Opinion: Harsh Words or Honest Truth?
Football is a team sport, yet individual errors often become the loudest headlines. The NFF’s decision to publicly single out Dessers and Ekong raises eyebrows. On one hand, accountability is vital—fans deserve honesty about performances when national pride is on the line. On the other, airing such blunt criticism risks shaking confidence within the squad when unity is most needed.
Dessers, still trying to establish himself as a reliable striker for Nigeria, may find such stinging words damaging to his morale. Troost-Ekong, a veteran and captain, has carried the team through many tough nights; one mistake shouldn’t erase years of service.
The bigger picture? Nigeria’s struggles in front of goal and shaky defending are not down to two men alone. Structural issues, tactical adjustments, and perhaps even deeper squad mentality problems need addressing. If the Super Eagles are to soar into the World Cup, constructive solutions, not scapegoating, must take center stage.
After all, as fans often remind us: when the Eagles win, they win together; when they falter, they must also rise together.
