Nigeria’s hopes of securing a spot at the 2026 World Cup came to a heartbreaking end on Sunday, as the Super Eagles fell 4-3 to DR Congo in a tense penalty shootout.

The match left fans and players alike grappling with the disappointment of missing out on football’s biggest stage in Mexico, the United States, and Canada.

Among those watching from the sidelines was team captain William Troost-Ekong, widely regarded as Nigeria’s most reliable penalty taker. With four of his eight international goals coming from the spot, many supporters had hoped to see him step up in the decisive moments.

Reflecting on his absence during the shootout, the 32-year-old centre-back spoke candidly about his perspective. “No, I wasn’t frustrated at all. My focus was on helping the team win, however I could,” Troost-Ekong said.

He emphasized that leadership extends beyond the pitch. “My role is to support the team—on the field, off the field, wherever needed. As you could see, there’s a lot of togetherness in this squad,” he added.

Also Read: ISWAP Ambush: 25 Brigade Commander Reportedly Killed Despite Army Denial

While he admitted that he would have volunteered for a penalty if he had been playing, Troost-Ekong sees the bigger picture. “Of course, I would have taken one, but these moments are also opportunities for the younger players to grow. Experiences like this will help them develop, both for their careers and the future of Nigerian football,” he said.

Troost-Ekong’s words highlight the balance between personal skill and team development—a reminder that even in defeat, lessons and growth remain. For Nigeria, the painful exit may yet plant the seeds for a stronger, more experienced squad heading into future competitions.