CurrentReport Blog Super Eagles captain, William Troost-Ekong, has accepted responsibility for his mistake that led to Zimbabwe’s dramatic equalizer in their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier on Tuesday. Despite a strong performance from the team, Nigeria was forced to settle for a 1-1 draw after Zimbabwe’s Tawanda Chirewa scored in stoppage time.
Victor Osimhen had given Nigeria a 1-0 lead in the 74th minute with a header off a cross from Ola Aina. However, Zimbabwe fought back in the dying seconds of the match, with Chirewa slipping past Troost-Ekong and scoring under goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali.
Troost-Ekong, who was named the Most Valuable Player at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), received criticism from fans and pundits on social media for allowing Chirewa to bypass him too easily in the crucial moment.
Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Troost-Ekong acknowledged his error and reassured fans of the team’s commitment, writing: “Responsibility taken. Same target ahead. We will do it together! Nigeria Super Eagles.”
The draw leaves Nigeria in a precarious position in Group C, currently in fourth place with six points, trailing South Africa, the group leaders. With only a few matches remaining in the qualification campaign, the Super Eagles’ hopes of securing a spot at the 2026 World Cup are now in jeopardy.
As the team prepares for their next qualifiers, Troost-Ekong’s leadership will be key in ensuring they bounce back and continue to fight for a spot in the tournament.
