By Anifowoshe Oladipupo
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), has openly criticized striker Cyriel Dessers and captain William Troost-Ekong following the Super Eagles’ 1-1 draw with South Africa on Tuesday, a result that further jeopardizes Nigeria’s 2026 World Cup qualification hopes.
In a statement, NFF spokesperson Dr. Ademola Olajire described Dessers’ display as “unimpressive” and faulted Troost-Ekong for the 25th-minute own goal that handed South Africa the lead.
Defender Calvin Bassey’s equalizer was praised, but the NFF lamented the team’s lack of cutting edge, particularly in the second half.
The result leaves Nigeria on 11 points from eight matches in Group C, six points behind leaders South Africa on 17.
The Eagles must now win their final two games and rely on favourable results elsewhere to keep their World Cup hopes alive.
