Nigeria captain William Troost-Ekong says the Super Eagles face a fierce test against the Democratic Republic of Congo in Sunday’s FIFA World Cup Africa Playoff final, but insists the team has the quality and hunger to prevail in Rabat.
Both nations, who boast five continental titles between them, meet in a high-stakes duel that will decide Africa’s representative at the Intercontinental Playoffs for two remaining 2026 World Cup slots. The global tournament begins in Mexico in four months.
Ekong acknowledged the scale of the task but believes Nigeria’s depth and desire can push them over the line.
“The Congolese will be a big challenge. They are tough, ambitious and want to go to the World Cup too,” he said. “But we have a large group here, and only a few of us have been to a World Cup before. The rest have that adrenaline and motivation to make it and that can drive us to conquer on Sunday.”
Ekong, Alex Iwobi, Wilfred Ndidi and Chidozie Awaziem are the only players in the current squad with previous World Cup experience.
DR Congo, led by coach Éric Chelle, arrive with a dangerous frontline featuring Cédric Bakambu, Nathaniel Mbuku, Theo Bongonda and Fiston Mayele. In midfield, Noah Sadiki and Charles Pickel provide balance, while Aaron Wan-Bissaka anchors a compact defence alongside captain Chancel Mbemba, who is set for his 101st cap.
Chelle has a full squad available, including Iwobi (on 90 caps) and Moses Simon (on 86), and Ekong stressed the team is united in its mission.
“We would have preferred the automatic ticket, but it didn’t work out. Now we have a second chance and we won’t waste it,” he said.
