By Obaloluwa Joshua, LAGOS
Former Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong has urged the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to adopt a long-term strategy to ensure the team secures qualification for the 2030 FIFA World Cup, Prompt News Online reports.
The defender said Nigeria’s failure to qualify for back-to-back World Cup tournaments should serve as a wake-up call and a catalyst for meaningful reforms within the national team setup.
The Super Eagles missed out on the 2026 FIFA World Cup after suffering a penalty shootout defeat to the Democratic Republic of Congo in the final of the African play-offs.
Nigeria’s most recent appearance at the global showpiece came at the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia.
According to Troost-Ekong, the disappointment of successive qualification failures must inspire the NFF to implement a clear and sustainable plan that will give the Super Eagles the best chance of returning to football’s biggest stage in 2030.
“It would have been wonderful to see them compete, but I also think this serves as an important lesson,” Troost-Ekong told Supersport.
“We need to reflect on our preparation and identify what needs to change in order to reach the next level ahead of the next World Cup.
“The players will continue working hard, sharing ideas, and doing everything possible to improve.
“I have never felt there was a lack of motivation or commitment from the players. I simply believe there are several areas that need to change, and this time those changes will be essential if the team is to succeed.”
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