Super Eagles captain, William Troost-Ekong, has expressed confidence and determination as the Nigerian national team prepares for the CAF Play-Off Tournament for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The playoff will take place in Morocco from November 13 to 16, 2025, serving as the final qualification stage before the intercontinental play-offs in Mexico next March.

Nigeria secured their place in the playoffs after a dominant 4-0 win over Benin Republic on Tuesday night in Uyo. The victory reignited hopes of reaching the global tournament after missing out on the 2022 edition in Qatar.

Speaking to thenff.com, Troost-Ekong said the players are grateful for the chance to fight for qualification despite missing the automatic slot.

“We are quite happy to have that opportunity. It is a long route but it is a route after all. We would have loved to get the automatic ticket but it didn’t happen, and we take what we have,” the PAOK Salonika defender stated.

The Super Eagles will face Gabon in the semi-final of the playoffs and will need to maintain their form and focus to clinch one of Africa’s remaining World Cup tickets. Troost-Ekong assured Nigerians that the team remains mentally and physically prepared to take on any challenge ahead.

“For us, we will remain strong and tough and ready to confront every challenge on our way as we search for the ticket to the 2026 FIFA World Cup,” he added.

With renewed confidence and unity in the squad, Nigerian fans will be hoping that Troost-Ekong and his teammates can deliver another memorable performance in Morocco and secure a spot at football’s biggest stage.