"We Didn't Approve It" - NFF Disowns Press Release Blaming Ekong, Dessers for South Africa Draw

"We Didn't Approve It" - NFF Disowns Press Release Blaming Ekong, Dessers for South Africa Draw

By Niyi Busari 

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has disassociated itself from a controversial press release that blamed two Super Eagles players for the team’s 1-1 draw against South Africa in a 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The statement, which was issued on Tuesday night by the Federation’s Communications Department, directly criticized team captain William Troost-Ekong and forward Cyriel Dessers for their performances in the Group C qualifier at the Toyota Stadium in Bloemfontein.

However, in a telephone interview with journalist Omofoma Ebare, NFF General Secretary, Mohammed Sanusi, denied that the Federation sanctioned the statement.

“It was a painful result, but as a believer, I know that whatever comes is from God,” Sanusi said. “We are not happy, and we apologize to all Nigerians. But I saw the press release the same way everyone else did. The NFF did not authorize anyone to publish such a statement.”

Sanusi emphasized the importance of collective responsibility in both victory and defeat.

“We are proud of our players,” he added. “Blaming individuals is not acceptable. When we win, it’s a team effort, and when we lose, it's the same. No single player should be held responsible.”

He also praised Cyriel Dessers and Troost-Ekong’s contributions to Nigerian football, calling for more respect and unity.

“The two players have contributed significantly to the development of football in Nigeria. Both of them were two of our best players in England when we won trophy, and we celebrated him. We are not happy with them being singled out.”

Sanusi further stated that the Federation is investigating the origin of the release and will take appropriate action.

The result leaves Nigeria’s qualification hopes in tatters. With 11 points from eight matches, the Super Eagles are at risk of missing back-to-back FIFA World Cup tournaments, having also failed to qualify for the 2022 edition in Qatar.