Nigeria captain William Ekong acknowledged the formidable challenge posed by the Democratic Republic of Congo ahead of their World Cup playoff final at the Complexe Sportif Prince Moulay El Hassan in Morocco. The defender recognized the Leopards as determined opponents seeking World Cup qualification but expressed confidence in the Super Eagles' ability to secure victory.
Ekong emphasized the motivational advantage of having 20 squad members without prior World Cup experience, noting their intense desire to reach the global tournament. Among the 24-player roster, only Ekong himself, alongside Alex Iwobi, Wilfred Ndidi and Chidozie Awaziem, participated in the 2018 Russia competition.
The winner will advance to the intercontinental playoffs scheduled in Mexico, competing for one of two remaining berths at the 2026 World Cup finals. Both nations possess five African championships combined, setting the stage for a prestigious continental confrontation.
Ekong emphasized the motivational advantage of having 20 squad members without prior World Cup experience, noting their intense desire to reach the global tournament. Among the 24-player roster, only Ekong himself, alongside Alex Iwobi, Wilfred Ndidi and Chidozie Awaziem, participated in the 2018 Russia competition.
The winner will advance to the intercontinental playoffs scheduled in Mexico, competing for one of two remaining berths at the 2026 World Cup finals. Both nations possess five African championships combined, setting the stage for a prestigious continental confrontation.
