'We are going to fight to the end' - Troost-Ekong, Bassey optimistic ahead of Super Eagles WCQs

Super Eagles duo William Troost-Ekong and Calvin Bassey have urged the team to remain calm and composed as Nigeria prepares for a must-win 2026 Fifa World Cup qualifier against Lesotho on Friday at the Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane, Limpopo, South Africa.

The Super Eagles currently sit third in Group C with 11 points, trailing leaders Benin Republic and second-placed South Africa by three points.

With just two matches remaining in the qualifiers, Nigeria must secure maximum points against Lesotho to keep their qualification hopes alive.

Speaking ahead of the game, Troost-Ekong stressed the team’s determination and unity as they look to revive their campaign.

“We are optimistic. We are going to fight to the end. We never stop believing. Two important games now, Friday is the first one and after that we will get back to Nigeria," Troost-Ekong said in an interview with the Super Eagles media team made available to allnigeriasoccer.com.

"The focus now is on Lesotho. The boys are in camp and focused.

"It’s been the same for us all along. It is that everyone else sees the opportunity now that we saw before and like I said we are very optimistic and focus on the game on Friday."

Also speaking, Fulham defender Calvin Bassey urged calmness and composure among the players as they prepare for what could be a decisive fixture in their qualification journey.

“To remain calm and do what we have to. I think this is not the first time, club or country, anyone of us have been in a high pressure moment. 

"So, I think we have got an experienced team to handle this situation. It is just about making sure we do everything right."

Nigeria will be aiming for victory in Polokwane to strengthen their chances of reaching the 2026 World Cup while hoping that Benin and South Africa drop points in their respective games against Rwanda and Zimbabwe.

Adeyemi Adewale

Copyright ANS
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from allnigeriasoccer.com