The Nigeria Football Federation has disowned a statement from its communications department that criticised captain William Troost-Ekong and striker Cyril Dessers after the Super Eagles’ 1-1 draw with South Africa. The result put Nigeria’s 2026 World Cup qualification hopes at risk.
The statement, which singled out Ekong for scoring an own goal and described Dessers as ineffective, sparked strong backlash on social media.
Also Read: Presidency Defends Emergency Rule in Rivers Amid Criticism
NFF Secretary General Mohamed Sanusi told journalists that the federation “did not approve the statement”, stressing that the performance was a collective responsibility. He defended Ekong, describing him as a player who has made significant contributions to Nigerian football.
Sanusi added that the NFF, the National Sports Commission, and the federal government remain fully behind the players and coaching staff, saying efforts are focused on the matches ahead.
Leave feedback about this
You must be logged in to post a comment.