'Every player's dream' - Nigeria captain Troost-Ekong says he's hungry for another World Cup

Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong has expressed his strong desire to help Nigeria qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup ahead of Thursday's playoff encounter against Gabon in Rabat, Morocco.

Nigeria began preparations for the global tournament on Sunday, with players arriving at the Rive Hotel in Rabat.

The team held their first training session on Monday, but players reportedly boycotted training on Tuesday over outstanding allowances and bonuses.

Despite the ongoing financial disputes, the former Watford defender said the squad remains ambitious and determined to secure qualification for the World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico.

"We talk about it all the time. It's every player's dream," Troost-Ekong said in a social media post by Victor Ademola. 

"I don't think I need to tell them how much it means but I did tell them what my experience was. And I am very much hungry for another time at the world stage."

The captain emphasized that the players fully understand the significance of the clash against Gabon and are focused on achieving success for the national team.

"So, yeah we understand the gravity of these games and I think even for the young players, everyone wants to make a name for themselves and wants to achieve something with Nigeria. So there's a real sense of urgency and focus," he added.

Troost-Ekong noted that nothing has changed in terms of the team's objectives compared to previous qualifiers.

"Nothing has changed from the games that we played before March. We still had to win these games. 

"How we started the qualifiers two and a half years ago, so we are just trying to make the most of the opportunity now."

Nigeria secured their place in the playoffs after finishing second in Group C of the qualifiers, following a 4-0 victory over Benin Republic in Uyo in October.

A victory for the Super Eagles on Thursday would ensure progression to the playoff final, where they would face the winners of the other semifinal clash between DR Congo and Cameroon.

Adeyemi Adewale

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