Troost-Ekong Says He Was Ready for Penalty Against DR Congo

Nigeria captain William Troost-Ekong has confirmed he was supposed to take a penalty in the shootout against DR Congo but could not do so because he was not on the pitch. The Super Eagles lost 4-3 on penalties on Sunday, ending their dream of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup.

Troost-Ekong, Nigeria’s first-choice penalty taker, stayed on the bench throughout the match. His absence during the shootout sparked questions among fans, especially after the team crashed out.

Responding to whether he was upset about not being subbed on before the penalties, Troost-Ekong said he felt no personal disappointment. “No, I don't think I was. I wasn't frustrated; I just wanted to win this game, no matter how,” he said. He added that his role was to help the team “both on and off the pitch… there’s a lot of togetherness.”

He also stressed he was fully prepared to take responsibility if he had been on the field.

Of course, if I had been on the pitch, I would have taken one. But it was also time for the other boys to get that experience.

Four of Troost-Ekong’s eight international goals for Nigeria have come from the penalty spot, underscoring his reliability in such moments.