Are bloated egos and star reputation weighing down Nigeria? Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong addresses reports of divided camp ahead of Bafana Bafana clash in 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier

Nigeria have been struggling in the current 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers after recording two wins, four draws and a defeat in Group C.

Seven Premier League players are currently in the Super Eagles squad who face a Bafana side that largely relies on Premier Soccer League players.

South Africa and Nigeria meet at Free State Stadium on Tuesday, and the latter's captain, William Troost-Ekong, dismisses that egos from a star-studded squad have been working against Eric Chelle's side. 

"I live and breathe this team from the inside out, and if there's one thing I have to say about the team now, there is a real unity and togetherness. Players want to fight together for the same cause," Troost-Ekong said asd per SABC Sport.
"We can only control what we can; the coach already spoke about the FIFA situation. We have got nine more points to play for, starting with this very important match-the rest is out of our control.
"The level and competitiveness of teams across Africa are increasing. Times have changed from having any game that is a clear win to games in which anything can happen," added the Netherlands-born player.  
"We respect South Africa, we know that they're a good team, and we will be ready."

The Super Eagles risk missing out on finishing second in this group, a position that would take them to the second round of the qualifiers.

They have six points fewer than leaders Bafana, who are pushing for automatic qualification by finishing first.

But should Nigeria win on Tuesday, they will go three points behind Bafana with two games to go in this group. 

Bafana coach Hugo Broos will be hoping the absence of injured Nigeria dangerman Victor Osihmen will be a blessing to his side.

This comes as South Africa have also lost Nyiko Mobbie due to injury.