Troost-Ekong: Super Eagles Need Proper Structure To Excel

Former Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong has stressed the need for the right structure and consistency if the team is to compete successfully at the highest level of international football.

The three-time African champions have endured a difficult period in recent years, missing out on the last two FIFA World Cup tournaments.

Nigeria have also made an unconvincing start to their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign.

The Super Eagles narrowly defeated Madagascar’s Barea 2-1 at home before suffering a disappointing 3-0 defeat to Guinea-Bissau’s Wild Dogs in their second match.

Troost-Ekong believes greater consistency is needed from the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), the coaching staff and the players.

“We are at a point where we need to see some consistency, I think, from the top down — from the federation to the coach to this group of players,” Troost-Ekong told beIN SPORTS.

The former Watford defender acknowledged that Nigeria have an abundance of talent but noted that a clear and stable structure is required to maximise the team’s potential.

“I think the talent is there in abundance. What we see now is still some uncertainty about how things are prepared for the team,” said Troost-Ekong.

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“Appointing Eric Chelle for the long term has been a great thing to do. He’s also in charge of the Olympic team, so he understands the young players coming through.”

Troost-Ekong further emphasised that Nigeria cannot rely solely on individual talent and must establish a strong foundation around the team.

“That consistency is number one. But I do think the team needs the structure and the backbone, and we can’t just rely on the talent alone,” he added.

“I think we’ve managed to cover a lot of gaps over the years. But now, over time, those things will get exposed. They need to have the right structure around it.”

Troost-Ekong also pointed to the increasing competitiveness of African football, warning that Nigeria must put themselves in the best possible position to overcome increasingly difficult opposition.

“For any team playing in Africa, the level is continuously increasing, also from the other teams. So you need to make sure you give yourself the best opportunity to win,” the 33-year-old declared.

He remains hopeful that greater stability under Chelle can help the Super Eagles regain consistency and compete strongly in future qualifiers.

“Now, with this coach, hopefully they can find some consistency and take the qualifiers seriously from the beginning. And then I think we’re going to see some great things from Nigeria,”Troost-Ekong stated.