The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has openly criticized Super Eagles striker Cyriel Dessers and captain William Troost-Ekong following the team’s disappointing 1-1 draw against South Africa in Tuesday’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier in Bloemfontein.
The result leaves Nigeria’s hopes of qualifying for next year’s tournament in North America hanging in the balance, with only two games left to play.
The setback began in the 8th minute when defender Ola Aina was forced off with an injury. Things went from bad to worse in the 25th minute when Troost-Ekong mistakenly turned the ball into his own net, handing Bafana Bafana the lead.
In a statement released by its Director of Communications, Dr. Ademola Olajire, the NFF said:
“The Super Eagles’ fighting spirit was diminished for a period after team captain William Ekong inadvertently swept the ball into his own net in the 25th minute, wrong-footing Stanley Nwabali to give the Bafana the lead and great impetus.”
Nigeria, however, managed to pull level just before halftime, thanks to Calvin Bassey, who was singled out for praise.
“Defender Calvin Bassey showed immense fighting spirit and resilience to get Nigeria back into the game with a minute left of the first period. He ran with the ball upfront, found Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, and then met his pull-out firmly to nod past Ronwen Williams for the equaliser,” the federation noted.
The NFF reserved its harshest criticism for Cyriel Dessers, who was substituted at halftime.
“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 latch onto passes, failed to win aerial duels, and offered little in attack,” the statement read.
The federation also lamented the lack of impact from substitutes Tolu Arokodare, Samuel Chukwueze, and Chrisantus Uche, who could not break down South Africa’s defence despite Nigeria dominating the second half.
The draw leaves Nigeria on 11 points from eight matches, while South Africa remain top of Group C with 17 points.
With only two fixtures left, the Super Eagles must defeat both Lesotho and Benin Republic while hoping other group contenders drop points to keep their World Cup qualification hopes alive.
