Troost-Ekong responds to critics ahead of super eagles’ world cup playoff final

Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong has hit back at former Watford teammate Troy Deeney and retired Sierra Leone international Michael Lahoud, who publicly questioned his leadership following Nigeria’s 4-1 triumph over Gabon in the 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff semifinal in Morocco, Sport360NG reports.

The criticisms arose after the team’s dispute with the Nigeria Football Federation over unpaid bonuses and allowances, sparking widespread discussion on social media. Troost-Ekong, however, delivered a decisive performance off the bench, helping Nigeria secure a commanding win and a place in Sunday’s playoff final against DR Congo.

In comments shared via a video by Mr Nigerian Football on X, the 32-year-old centre-back described Lahoud’s remarks as ill-informed and disrespectful.

“I found it very disrespectful. I even had to Google who he was talking about. Perhaps if he had done some research, his comments would have been different,” Troost-Ekong told reporters in Rabat.

He highlighted the collective leadership within the Super Eagles’ squad, naming Victor Osimhen, Wilfred Ndidi, Alex Iwobi, and Moses Simon as influential figures in the dressing room. The defender also defended his own role, citing his experience and longevity in the team: “We have players stepping up and showing their abilities. Being on the bench doesn’t erase your contribution. I have 83 caps for Nigeria.”

Troost-Ekong reserved his sharpest response for Deeney, expressing surprise that a former teammate would question his leadership.

“I was a bit disappointed with my former teammate. I supported him when he captained Watford, and I’ve also captained the club. A simple call would have sufficed,” he said. “If there’s no respect, then maybe he should take down the Nigeria shirt I gave him that’s on his wall somewhere.”

With the semifinal behind them, Nigeria now focuses on the crucial playoff final against DR Congo, where a win will secure a place in the intercontinental playoffs set for March 2026.