The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has openly criticized two Super Eagles stars, Cyriel Dessers and skipper William Troost-Ekong, following the team’s 1-1 stalemate against South Africa in Tuesday’s 2026 World Cup qualifier.
Nigeria went into the encounter desperate for victory to keep qualification hopes alive but found themselves behind after 25 minutes when Troost-Ekong accidentally diverted the ball past goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali for an own goal.
Just before half-time, defender Calvin Bassey rescued the Eagles with a towering header, restoring parity.
But in a statement issued by the NFF’s Director of Communications, Dr. Ademola Olajire, Dessers came under sharp criticism. The striker, who was replaced at the break, was described as ineffective.
“Cyriel Dessers struggled again after a poor outing in Uyo. He was slow, failed to win aerial duels, and offered little in attack, leaving Nigeria without a cutting edge up front,” the statement read.
Troost-Ekong’s costly mistake was also highlighted, with the NFF noting that his own goal disrupted the team’s rhythm.
“The Super Eagles’ momentum was broken when captain William Ekong mistakenly put the ball into his own net, gifting the Bafana Bafana the lead and the confidence to push harder,” the statement added.
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