Nigeria’s Super Eagles coach, Eric Chelle, addressed the media about his decision to bench team captain William Troost‑Ekong for the crucial 2026 World Cup qualifier against Rwanda on Saturday. The match, played in Uyo, Akwa Ibom, ended in a 1‑0 victory for the Super Eagles over the Amavubi. Chelle chose 20‑year‑old Benjamin Fredrick to partner Calvin Bassey in central defence, with Wilfred Ndidi leading the side out as captain. Troost‑Ekong, who normally wears the armband, entered the game as a late substitute.
When asked to explain his choice, Chelle replied, “I don’t want to explain myself; this is my choice as a coach, and I respect and believe in all my players.” He added, “This is my job. If we win, everybody will be happy, and if we don’t, they will complain, but this is my choice.”
The win over Rwanda marks a significant step in Nigeria’s 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign. As three‑time African champions, the Super Eagles are expected to perform well in the tournament, and the victory has temporarily shifted attention away from the controversy surrounding Troost‑Ekong’s benching. With the qualifying campaign now underway, Nigeria’s upcoming matches will be crucial in determining their chances of advancing to the World Cup.
The team’s performance under Chelle’s leadership will be closely watched, and decisions such as the one to bench Troost‑Ekong will continue to be scrutinized. As the Super Eagles pursue a spot in the 2026 World Cup, fans and critics alike will be eager to see how the squad responds to the challenges ahead, aiming to maintain momentum after their first qualifying win.
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