2026 WCQs: Super Eagles captain Ekong urges focus, highlights Simon's role in Fredrick's rise

Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong has emphasized the team’s focus and determination ahead of Nigeria’s pivotal 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and South Africa. 

 Speaking to the media at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Troost-Ekong provided insight into the squad’s preparations and praised emerging talent Benjamin Fredrick.

"We're here now. We're waiting for the last few players to arrive very shortly, looking forward to having the full house of training tonight. But yeah, no, I think the boys are very focused," Troost-Ekong said.

"You know, we’re looking forward to the game on Saturday. I want to thank them for their support. I want to ask them to continue to encourage us, to be there in the stadium on Saturday, to be praying for us, everyone else in Nigeria. 

"No, it's going to be important, you know, set up games for us now starting on Saturday. 

"We know the gravity of this game and yeah, we're going to be focused on preparation because I think that's the thing that's going to give us confidence for the game on Saturday."

Troost-Ekong also highlighted the impressive rise of young defender Benjamin Fredrick. 

"Benjamin is a humble, hardworking, very talented defender. I think we were all really impressed with what he showed us in the Unity Cup. 

"To win the Unity Cup and also to come in so last minute and to play so well, it's not easy at all. So, I think a big credit to him. I know how hard he's worked,” he said.

The captain credited Moses Simon for helping nurture Fredrick’s talent. 

"Also big credit to my teammate Moses Simon for giving him the opportunity and bringing him to his academy before he came to Brentford. 

"So it's things that we love to see, you know. We have a young talented player that's going to be the future of Nigeria as a defender, and we have a current very talented Super Eagle who has helped him give the opportunity to play professional football and be a Super Eagle. 

"So, it's an amazing story, and yeah, I'm looking forward to seeing him continue his development and becoming important for the team."

The Super Eagles are currently in camp with 18 players, awaiting the arrival of five more as they prepare for the crucial Group C fixtures. 

Nigeria currently sits fourth in the group, and a strong performance in these matches is essential to keeping their 2026 World Cup qualification hopes alive.

Wale Adejumo

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