Troost-Ekong vs. Osimhen: Super Eagles Captain Rejects ‘One-Man Team’ Label

• Team Effort Matters: Captain William Troost-Ekong dismissed claims that the Super Eagles rely too much on Victor Osimhen, emphasizing that every player contributes to the team’s success.
• Tactical Concerns: Fans criticized Coach Eric Chelle for playing Ademola Lookman out of position and making questionable substitutions, which they believe cost Nigeria the win.
• World Cup Hopes in Jeopardy: Supporters fear that missing two consecutive World Cups could damage the reputation and market value of Nigerian players globally.

Super Eagles captain, William Troost-Ekong, has dismissed claims that the team relies too much on one player, following their disappointing 1-1 draw against Zimbabwe.

Millions of Nigerian fans are still coming to terms with the result, which has put the country’s chances of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup in jeopardy.

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“When the team plays well together, every individual shines,” Ekong said. “Even in the Rwanda game, you have to look beyond Victor Osimhen’s performance. Every player contributes in their role, including those who came off the bench or played out of position, like Yusuf Alhassan.”

 

Emphasizing the importance of teamwork, he added, “It is not right to say we rely on only one player. That’s not our mentality. We work hard as a unit, and when everyone is comfortable, we achieve more.”

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Following the match at Godswill Akpabio Stadium, Uyo, some fans blamed the players for not supporting Osimhen enough and criticized Coach Eric Chelle for tactical errors.

Many questioned the decision to play Ademola Lookman in midfield rather than his natural attacking role, arguing that his pace and skill would have been more effective on the wings. Others faulted Chelle for bringing in Victor Boniface instead of a defender when Nigeria was leading, leaving the team vulnerable at the back and allowing Zimbabwe to equalize.

A fan remarked, “Introducing a defender would have provided more cover and helped protect our lead.”

Longtime supporter Emmanuel Adegunle expressed frustration, saying, “Our boys had several chances to score but failed to take them. The defense was weak and easily lost possession, leading to Zimbabwe’s equalizer. If Nigeria misses two consecutive World Cups, it will reduce the value of our talented players in the global market.”

 

With the road to 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification now more difficult, the Super Eagles must regroup quickly to avoid another setback.

 

 

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