NFF Criticizes Dessers, Troost-Ekong After Super Eagles’ 1-1 Draw with South Africa

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has openly criticized Cyriel Dessers and team captain William Troost-Ekong following the Super Eagles’ 1-1 draw against South Africa in Tuesday’s 2026 World Cup qualifier.

Nigeria went into the match needing maximum points to boost their qualification hopes but fell behind in the 25th minute when Troost-Ekong accidentally turned the ball into his own net. The Super Eagles later equalized before halftime through a powerful header from Calvin Bassey.

In a post-match statement, NFF Director of Communications, Dr. Ademola Olajire, described Dessers’ performance as lackluster, noting that the forward, who was substituted at halftime, failed to make an impact in attack.

“Cyriel Dessers, who had an unimpressive game in Uyo where he was a substitute that was substituted, did not fare better this time. He was too slow to react to passes, struggled in aerial duels, and failed to ignite the Nigerian attack,” Olajire stated.

Troost-Ekong was also faulted for gifting the Bafana Bafana the opening goal. “The Super Eagles’ fighting spirit was dampened after captain William Ekong inadvertently swept the ball into his own net in the 25th minute, wrong-footing goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali,” the statement added.