Super Eagles captain, William Troost-Ekong, is facing a race against time to be fit for Nigeria’s crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe.
The experienced center-back has been sidelined due to a muscle injury, which has kept him out of Al Kholood’s last two league matches in the Saudi Arabian First Division. His absence has raised concerns about his availability for the national team’s upcoming fixtures.
Despite his vital leadership role in the Super Eagles squad, Al Kholood is yet to release an official medical report detailing the severity of the injury or a possible return date. However, head coach Eric Chelle and the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) will be hopeful that the defender recovers in time to boost the squad.
Troost-Ekong’s potential absence adds to Nigeria’s growing injury concerns ahead of the qualifiers. Key players such as Semi Ajayi, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, and Raphael Onyedika are also battling various injuries and remain doubtful for the critical encounters.
The Super Eagles will travel to Kigali to face Rwanda on Friday, March 21, before returning to Nigeria to host Zimbabwe four days later. Both matches are crucial as the team aims to secure early points in their quest to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States.
Troost-Ekong, known for his defensive solidity and leadership, played a significant role in Nigeria’s run to the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final, where the team finished as runners-up. His absence could pose a challenge for the Super Eagles’ backline, especially against unpredictable opponents like Rwanda and Zimbabwe.
Coach Chelle may be forced to explore alternative defensive options if the injured players fail to recover in time. Players like Kenneth Omeruo, Calvin Bassey, and Chidozie Awaziem could step in to fill the void.
The Super Eagles currently face immense pressure to deliver strong performances in the qualifiers following recent criticisms of their inconsistency. With fans eager to see Nigeria return to the world’s biggest football stage after a disappointing absence from the 2022 World Cup, every point in the qualifiers is vital.
As the countdown to the matches begins, all eyes will be on the Super Eagles’ medical team and Troost-Ekong’s recovery process. His return could provide a much-needed boost for Nigeria’s defensive stability and leadership on the pitch.