Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong and defender Calvin Bassey have called for calm and unity as Nigeria gear up for a crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Lesotho on Friday at the Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane, South Africa, Footynaija.com reports.
Nigeria sit third in Group C with 11 points, three behind leaders Benin Republic and second-placed South Africa, and must secure victory to keep their qualification hopes alive.
With only two matches remaining, every point now carries immense weight in the race to reach the global finals.
Troost-Ekong underscored the team’s belief and determination, saying,
“We are optimistic. We are going to fight to the end. We never stop believing. Two important games now, Friday is the first one and after that we will get back to Nigeria. The focus now is on Lesotho. The boys are in camp and focused.”
Fulham defender Calvin Bassey echoed his teammate’s sentiments, urging the squad to stay composed amid the growing pressure.
“To remain calm and do what we have to. I think this is not the first time, club or country, anyone of us have been in a high-pressure moment,” he said. “So, I think we have got an experienced team to handle this situation. It is just about making sure we do everything right.”
Nigeria’s fate could also depend on results elsewhere, with Benin facing Rwanda and South Africa meeting Zimbabwe.
A win in Polokwane would keep the Super Eagles firmly in the hunt for a ticket to the 2026 World Cup.