Bloemfontein, South Africa – June 11, 2025
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has openly criticised Super Eagles striker Cyriel Dessers and raised concerns over the performance of team captain William Troost-Ekong, following Nigeria’s disappointing 1-1 draw with South Africa in a crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match.
The result, recorded Tuesday night at the Free State Stadium in Bloemfontein, dealt another blow to the Super Eagles’ qualification hopes for the upcoming tournament to be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Defensive Error, Missed Chances Haunt Nigeria
Nigeria’s troubles began early in the match when defender Ola Aina was forced off with an apparent injury in the 8th minute, disrupting the team’s defensive shape. Matters worsened midway through the first half when William Troost-Ekong, under minimal pressure, mistakenly turned the ball into his own net in the 25th minute—handing Bafana Bafana a surprise lead.
Though Calvin Bassey responded with a powerful header just before the break to level the score, the Super Eagles failed to build on the momentum in the second half. Despite dominating possession and territory, the team lacked clinical edge in front of goal.
NFF Unhappy With Dessers, Captain’s Leadership Questioned
In a post-match review, senior officials within the NFF expressed deep frustration with the team’s inability to secure a much-needed win, directing particular criticism toward striker Cyriel Dessers, who started up front but failed to make an impact.
An NFF technical department official, speaking under anonymity, said:
“Dessers didn’t offer enough movement or aggression. This was a must-win game, and we expected more urgency from our forwards. He struggled to link up play and failed to threaten the South African goal.”
The federation also faulted Troost-Ekong’s own goal, describing it as “uncharacteristic but costly”, and hinted at concerns over his decision-making and influence as captain during high-pressure matches.
“Leadership on the field is about more than wearing the armband. Mistakes happen, but big players rise in key moments. We needed better organisation and leadership, especially after the early setback,” the official added.
Substitutes Fail to Change the Game
Head coach Finidi George, who has come under increasing pressure in recent weeks, made attacking changes in the second half, introducing Tolu Arokodare, Samuel Chukwueze, and Chrisantus Uche in a bid to unlock the South African defence. However, the trio failed to provide the necessary spark.
Arokodare was largely anonymous, Chukwueze looked short on confidence, and Uche missed a golden opportunity late in the game after a swift counter-attack—dragging his shot wide from close range.
Qualification Hopes in Jeopardy
The draw leaves Nigeria with just three points from their opening four matches in the World Cup qualifying campaign—an alarming statistic for a team historically regarded as one of Africa’s footballing giants.
South Africa, meanwhile, continue to build momentum and sit comfortably ahead in the group standings.
With only two automatic qualification spots available in each group, the Super Eagles now face a mountain to climb in their remaining fixtures, including difficult ties against Rwanda and Benin Republic.
Finidi George Defends Players, Calls for Calm
Despite the NFF’s internal criticisms, head coach Finidi George defended his players in his post-match press conference, urging fans and stakeholders to remain patient.
“We are disappointed not to get all three points, but it’s not over yet. There were positives in our play—we created chances, and the team showed character to come back. We just need to be more ruthless in the final third,” he said.
When asked specifically about Dessers’ performance, Finidi said,
“He worked hard for the team, but sometimes strikers need that one moment. Unfortunately, it didn’t come today.”
Next Steps for the Super Eagles
Nigeria will now shift focus to their next qualifier, a must-win encounter against Rwanda, where the pressure will be intense and expectations sky-high. Fans across the country are growing increasingly restless, calling for urgent tactical adjustments and greater accountability from senior players.
The NFF is also expected to hold a closed-door technical review meeting this week to assess the team’s performance and consider possible changes ahead of the next international window.
As it stands, the Super Eagles must win all remaining matches and hope other results go their way to stand a realistic chance of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup—a tournament the nation is desperate not to miss.
Stay tuned for updates on Nigeria’s World Cup qualifiers, team news, and developments from the NFF.
