The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has distanced itself from a post-match statement that criticized Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong and striker Cyriel Dessers following Tuesday’s 1-1 draw with South Africa in a Group C 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier.
The controversial release, circulated under the name of NFF Director of Communications Ademola Olajire, faulted Troost-Ekong for the own goal that gave Bafana Bafana the lead and described Dessers as sluggish and ineffective.
But NFF General Secretary, Mohammed Sanusi, clarified on Wednesday that the statement was not sanctioned by the Federation.
“I saw the release just like everyone else did. Nobody in the Federation is happy with it; the NFF did not authorise that statement. We have great respect for all the players. Blaming an individual for a team result is unfair,” Sanusi said.
He stressed that the team’s unity remains intact: “When we win, it’s a team victory. When we lose, it’s also collective. No player should be singled out. Ekong’s own goal was unfortunate—his intention was to clear the ball. Anyone who knows football understands that such things happen.”
Sanusi further assured that the Federation’s focus is on completing the World Cup qualifiers and preparing for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 in Morocco.
“Our house is in order. We’re preparing for the rest of the qualifiers and the AFCON in Morocco. There’s no problem with our players or coaching crew. The government and the NFF are proud of the players’ efforts,” he noted.
He also confirmed that internal disciplinary action will be taken over the unauthorised release.
The Super Eagles currently sit third in Group C with 11 points from eight matches, trailing leaders South Africa, who have 17 points. Nigeria must win their remaining fixtures against Lesotho and Benin Republic in October, while also relying on other results, to keep their qualification hopes alive.