The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has criticised Super Eagles striker Cyriel Dessers and questioned captain William Troost-Ekong following Nigeria’s 1-1 draw with South Africa in a 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier in Bloemfontein on Tuesday.
The Eagles, needing a win to boost their World Cup qualifying hopes, were dealt an early blow when defender Ola Aina was forced off the field in the eighth minute due to injury.
The situation worsened in the 25th minute when Troost-Ekong inadvertently turned the ball into his own net, giving South Africa the lead.
Nigeria responded before half-time through a header from Calvin Bassey, restoring parity. However, the team struggled to convert possession into goals in the second half. Substitutes Tolu Arokodare, Samuel Chukwueze, and Chrisantus Uche were unable to break down the resilient South African defence.
In a post-match statement shared with journalists by NFF Director of Communications Dr. Ademola Olajire, the federation singled out Dessers for his underwhelming performance, noting that he was substituted at half-time.
“Cyriel Dessers, who had an unimpressive game in Uyo and was substituted, again struggled today. He was slow to reach passes, failed to win aerial duels, and contributed little to Nigeria’s attacking play,” the NFF statement said.
The federation also criticised Troost-Ekong for his role in conceding the opening goal, which placed Nigeria on the back foot early in the match.
Despite the draw, Nigeria remains in contention for World Cup qualification but will need strong performances in the remaining matches to secure a spot in next year’s tournament in North America.
The team is expected to regroup and prepare for its next fixture, aiming to address the shortcomings highlighted by the NFF.
