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Ekong urges Super Eagles to learn from 2026 World Cup absence
via Punch Nigeria10 min read
Former Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong stated that Nigeria's failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup is a significant disappointment, emphasizing that the team must view this setback as a crucial lesson. He believes the Super Eagles need to implement necessary changes to secure a return to football's premier global event. In an interview with SuperSport, Troost-Ekong, a former Watford defender, expressed both pride and frustration while observing African teams' strong performances at the ongoing tournament in North America. He feels Nigeria possessed the talent to have made a substantial impact if they had qualified. Nigeria's absence from the 2026 World Cup marks the second consecutive edition the country has missed, following an inconsistent qualifying campaign. Troost-Ekong noted that this disappointment has intensified the players' determination to see Nigeria back in the tournament. He asserted that the Super Eagles have the talent and experience to compete with top international teams, highlighting the squad's increasing maturity. Reflecting on the failed campaign, he suggested that Nigeria should treat it as a turning point, stressing the importance of reassessing preparations before the next qualifying cycle. Troost-Ekong dismissed claims of a lack of commitment from players, stating that motivation has always been present, but structural changes are essential for future success. Despite Nigeria's absence, he expressed optimism about the impressive sh
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Belgium eliminated the United States from their home World Cup with a 4-1 victory, secured by Charles De Ketelaere's two goals. This win means Belgium will face Spain in the quarter-finals, while the US exits the tournament in the round of 16. The match was preceded by controversy surrounding Folarin Balogun's one-game suspension, which US President Donald Trump asked FIFA to review, leading to its reversal. Despite this, Belgium's coach Rudi Garcia made surprising lineup choices, benching key players like Kevin De Bruyne and Jeremy Doku. De Ketelaere scored early, followed by a goal from Malik Tillman for the US. However, De Ketelaere quickly restored Belgium's lead. A goalkeeping error by Matt Freese and a late goal from Romelu Lukaku sealed the win for Belgium. The decision to lift Balogun's ban was criticized globally, but the Seattle crowd enthusiastically supported him. The US team's performance was described as flat, with their defense appearing nervous and midfield outgunned. Christian Pulisic left the game due to injury, further diminishing US hopes. Chris Richards' error in stoppage time allowed Lukaku to score the final goal.
Super Falcons forward Rinsola Babajide stated that qualification for the next FIFA Women’s World Cup will motivate Nigeria as they prepare for the expanded 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. The tournament, scheduled from July 25 to August 16, will feature 16 teams for the first time and offers spots in the next FIFA Women’s World Cup. Babajide, an AS Roma Women winger, told the Nigerian Football Federation that the expanded format will increase competition, but Nigeria's goal remains to defend their continental title. She emphasized that the pressure to win is constant, whether for the African championship or World Cup qualification. Babajide, who was part of the Super Falcons team that won the continental title in Morocco last year, noted that her football journey in England and Nigeria has shaped her, teaching her resilience and professionalism. The Super Falcons are in Group C with Malawi, Zambia, and Egypt, and will start their campaign against Malawi in Rabat on July 28.
Must ReadNigerian sprinter Kayinsola Ajayi secured a significant win at the 2026 Prefontaine Classic in Eugene, Oregon, clocking 9.84 seconds in the men’s 100m. This time equals his own Nigerian national record, which he first set in May. Ajayi’s performance saw him defeat reigning world champion Oblique Seville of Jamaica, who finished in 9.89 seconds, and American Olympian Christian Coleman, who took third with 9.95 seconds. Ajayi, 21, expressed confidence that faster times are achievable, stating, “Equalling the national record again means a lot. That means I can do better and I feel great about that.” This victory follows his recent NCAA Outdoor 100m title. Ajayi attributed his success to consistency, practice, staying healthy, and trusting himself and his coach. He also noted that the demanding collegiate athletics environment prepared him for professional competition, stating, “If I could overcome the pressure in the NCAA, that means I can overcome any pressure at pro level.” His 9.84s time is currently second only to Seville’s season-best of 9.82s. Ajayi initially broke Olusoji Fasuba’s 2006 national record of 9.85s in May at the NCAA East Regional Championships.