“Congo were better” – Ex-Super Eagles captain weighs in on NFF’s lodged appeal over World Cup spot

John Obi Mikel, Daniel Akpeyi and William Troost-Ekong in action for the Super Eagles of Nigeria. [Photo Credit/ Imago].

Former Super Eagles and Watford defender William Troost-Ekong has opined on the NFF’s appeal to FIFA regarding the go-ahead for DR Congo’s World Cup play-offs, Soccernet.ng reports.

The veteran centre-back was a part of Eric Chelle’s side in the play-offs against Congo last November, although he didn’t play a minute when the team lost on penalties.

Shortly after, he announced his retirement from the National Team, but at that time, the NFF had lodged complaints to FIFA, questioning the eligibility of some of the Congolese players who held dual nationalities, a status the Nation of Congo doesn’t approve of.

Last week, FIFA turned down Nigeria’s complaints and gave DR Congo an affirmation to go on with their International play-offs later this month as they look to seal a place in the World Cup. Still, the NFF filed an appeal.

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Soccer Ekong speaks on NFF’s appeal to FIFA to reinstate Super Eagles World Cup dreams

The 32-year-old played down Nigeria’s hopes of participating in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, claiming they’re not deserving, while linking it to Morocco being crowned Champions of Africa while losing the AFCON final to Senegal.

️ “We have to have a serious look about the structure we have in place and really preparing for long-term success.”

Former @NGSuperEagles captain @WTroostEkong on missing out on @FIFAWorldCup qualification and the future of Nigerian football #Nigeria pic.twitter.com/ZzllIZL7WQ

— beIN SPORTS (@beINSPORTS_EN) March 22, 2026

Speaking on BeIN Sports, the former Super Eagles captain revealed how much it hurt him to miss out on consecutive World Cup tournaments with his beloved nation.

“It’s a really tough space to be in. I think in 2022, we wanted to be in Qatar. We won our group, but in the play-offs, Ghana edged it on away goals, which was tough to take.

“This time around, with more slots available to African teams, and the strength of our squad, and Nigeria as a nation, it was a lot of pressure.

“Eric Chelle, the coach they have now, has done a fantastic job of turning around a very difficult start because it was an uphill race from the moment he took the job about a year ago.

“Unfortunately, Congo has managed to proceed so far. I know we’ve seen Nigeria hasn’t given up hope yet, but Congo were better when they played against Nigeria

“I wanted to be a part of the World Cup; I felt I had a great chance to show myself there, but that didn’t happen. You have to think of what’s best for the country and the next generation,” the former Gent man concluded.

Nigeria will feature in a four-nation tournament in the March International break alongside Iran, Jordan and Costa Rica.

Adefolahan Guerreiro

Adefolahan is a multilingual sports journalist and football writer whose work spans outlets like Soccernet Nigeria, Pure Football UK, and Royalsportz.

With a sharp eye for detail and a background in college sports, he tells the African football story with depth, flair, and global perspective.

Fluent in English, Spanish, and German, he brings a cross-cultural voice to his coverage, blending insight with accessibility for readers around the world.
His portfolio includes interviews with top Nigerian stars like Finidi George, Junior Lokosa, Sikiru Alimi, Sodiq Ismaila, and Abraham Onahi Ogbu.

A devoted Borussia Dortmund fan, Adefolahan thrives on the emotion and rhythm of the beautiful game. Away from work, he’s a sci-fi enthusiast and series lover who enjoys exploring how sport, storytelling, and culture collide.