The Super Eagles captain, William Troost-Ekong, has stressed that the team is now fully focused on their next World Cup qualifier against South Africa, refusing to dwell on Saturday’s victory over Rwanda.
PREMIUM TIMES reports that Nigeria edged past Rwanda’s Amavubi 1-0 in Uyo, a result that revived their hopes of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. However, the mood in the dressing room after the game reflected no celebration, only a determination to prepare for the bigger challenge in South Africa on Tuesday.
Although the narrow win at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium boosted confidence, Troost-Ekong revealed that the team’s immediate reaction was one of focus rather than jubilation.
“We have an important game again on Tuesday. I saw the changing room directly after the game, there was not even a celebration. There is a real desire to keep pushing on,” he said.
Read Also: Osimhen Ruled Out of South Africa Clash as Nigeria Faces Attacking Dilemma
The defender, who began the game on the bench, noted that while securing three points was vital, the true test for Nigeria’s resurgence would come against Bafana Bafana in Bloemfontein.
Chelle’s tactical call, Fredrick’s chance
Head coach Eric Chelle’s choice to leave out Ekong and instead start 20-year-old Benjamin Fredrick drew attention, but the coach stood firm, stressing that victory was the only priority.
Ekong also defended Chelle’s decision, praising the young defender’s composure and maturity in a high-pressure match.
“We should say a big congratulations to Benjamin. He played an amazing game today. To come into a game loaded with a lot of pressure at his age, it’s not an easy thing,” he said.
The balance of youth and experience may prove crucial for Nigeria as they face South Africa, who currently top Group C.
Nigeria’s win pushed them to 10 points, keeping their qualification hopes alive. South Africa remain leaders with 16 points. Victory on Tuesday could revive Nigeria’s chances, but defeat would almost certainly end their World Cup dream.
Still reeling from the disappointment of missing the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, the Super Eagles are desperate to avoid another absence. For Chelle, the clash in Bloemfontein represents more than points, it is about proving Nigeria’s standing among Africa’s top teams.
The Uyo crowd roared the Super Eagles to victory, but Ekong reminded supporters that the real test lies ahead.
“Like I said yesterday when I was here, we really believe in what we are doing. We can only control the things that we are doing now. We will take it step by step, and now the next step will be to step up.”
For Nigeria, the win against Rwanda was just the start. The real story will be written in Bloemfontein.
