Troost-Ekong and Bassey Boost Super Eagles Before Key World Cup Qualifier

Nigeria’s defenders focus on calm as the Super Eagles prepare for a crucial match against Lesotho.

Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong and defender Calvin Bassey have shown confidence ahead of Nigeria’s important 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match against Lesotho on Friday in Polokwane, South Africa.

The Super Eagles are currently third in Group C with 11 points, three points behind leaders Benin Republic and second-placed South Africa. With only two games left, Nigeria needs to win both to keep their World Cup hopes alive.

Troost-Ekong emphasized the team’s belief as they aim to boost their qualification chances. “We are optimistic. We are going to fight to the end. We never stop believing. Friday is the first of two important games, and we are fully focused on Lesotho,” he stated. “The boys are in camp and ready. We have always been focused, and now we see the opportunity ahead.”

Bassey, who plays for Fulham in the English Premier League, called for calm as the team approaches this high-pressure match. “We need to stay composed and do what we must. This is not the first time any of us has faced a high-pressure situation. Our experienced team can handle it,” he said.

Nigeria hopes to secure three points in Polokwane while relying on Benin and South Africa to drop points in their matches against Rwanda and Zimbabwe.