Nigeria Vs Lesotho: Troost-Ekong Promises Passion, Focus, And Victory For Super Eagles

According to Ireporter Online, Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong has expressed strong optimism about Nigeria’s chances as the national team prepares to face Lesotho in a crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying encounter in Polokwane, South Africa.

Speaking after the team’s second training session at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium, Troost-Ekong affirmed that the squad remains united, focused, and fully committed to delivering a result that will bring joy to Nigerians.

“We are optimistic and ready to fight to the end,” Troost-Ekong said. “Belief has always been part of this team. We know what’s at stake, and all attention is now on the Lesotho game. The atmosphere in camp is positive, and the boys are in high spirits.”

The experienced defender emphasized that despite external opinions and criticisms, the players have maintained faith in their qualification chances. “It has always been the same for us—we know we have to win. People are beginning to see the opportunity now, but we’ve seen it all along. Our focus remains on Friday’s game,” he added.

Head coach Eric Chelle currently has 20 players in camp after Zaidu Sanusi and Akor Adams joined the team on Wednesday, with only USA-based midfielder Alhassan Yusuf expected to arrive on Thursday. The coach has been forced to tweak his lineup due to injuries that ruled out Bright Osayi-Samuel, Cyriel Dessers, and Felix Agu. Christantus Uche and Sanusi were called up as replacements, while forward Olakunle Olusegun may miss out due to visa delays.

Vice-captain Wilfred Ndidi underscored the importance of concentration and discipline, warning against complacency as the team targets maximum points. “We know how important these two games are, but we’re taking it one step at a time. Lesotho first, then Benin. That’s the focus,” Ndidi noted.

Defender Calvin Bassey echoed similar sentiments, saying the team’s experience will help them manage the pressure that comes with crucial matches. “It’s all about staying calm and doing our job. We’ve been in big moments before, both at club and international level, and we’re prepared to handle the pressure,” Bassey said.

In the same vein, striker Terem Moffi of OGC Nice expressed confidence that the team will deliver, adding that the players are determined to make the nation proud. “We’re confident about our chances. We’ll give everything on the pitch and trust that the results go in our favour,” he said.

The Super Eagles will face Lesotho on Friday at 6 p.m. local time (5 p.m. Nigeria time) at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium before returning home to host the Benin Republic in another key qualifier four days later.