Nigeria captain William Troost-Ekong has insisted he remains ‘not frustrated' and carries no anger toward head coach Eric Chelle for leaving him on the bench during the Super Eagles’ decisive penalty shootout defeat to DR Congo on Sunday, Soccernet.ng reports.
The 32-year-old, widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s most reliable penalty takers, was expected by many to be introduced late in extra time with the score tied at 1–1.
Instead, Chelle opted for defender Chidozie Awaziem, a move that surprised supporters as Nigeria missed three spot-kicks and crashed out of the 2026 World Cup playoffs.
For Troost-Ekong, however, the disappointment of the result outweighed any personal feelings. His message was one of unity, accountability, and perspective as he addressed questions surrounding Chelle’s tactical choice.
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“I wasn’t frustrated” Troost-Ekong backs team despite painful exit
Speaking to journalists after the match, Troost-Ekong captured the emotional weight of Nigeria’s failure to book a ticket to the 2026 World Cup.
“We’re devastated as a team. I’m really proud of the boys. These are moments full of emotion. The boys gave it everything. It’s not just this game, but the games before, the last 10 months. We went out fighting. It wasn’t good enough today (Sunday), but there’s still so much positive to take from here,” he said.
With the shootout dominating conversations across the football community, the captain clarified his stance on not being introduced to take part.
“I wasn’t frustrated. I just wanted to win anyhow. My role is to support the team, on and off the pitch,” he added.
“Of course, if I would have been on the pitch, I would have taken one, but it was also time for the other boys to get that experience. This was a chance for other boys to gain experience, and it will serve them well in their careers and for Nigerian football. They stepped up, and they will learn from this moment. Next time, they’ll be better prepared and hopefully make the difference.”
Troost-Ekong also praised goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali’s commanding performance. The Chippa United shot-stopper saved two DR Congo penalty kicks but it was ultimately not enough.
“Credit to Stanley, he was amazing and made great saves. It takes big character to stand up and take that moment for your country,” Troost-Ekong added.
Nigeria vs DR Congo: Eric Chelle defends penalty decision
Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle also addressed the storm of criticism that followed his refusal to bring on the Al Kholood skipper.
Troost-Ekong, who scored three penalties at the last AFCON on his way to winning the tournament’s MVP award, had practiced spot-kicks with the squad on Saturday. But Chelle insisted the game situation ultimately shaped his decision.
“We did a penalty session yesterday,” Chelle said. “But it was a choice and if we come back maybe one hour later and this is not the same.
“It was a choice because I did feel that we were in danger during the ten last minutes that is why we put another defender.
“So, it is easy now to say maybe the best choice was the captain. So, it was a choice and reality we lost and I have to be focused on the next competition.”
Nigeria eventually fell 4–3 in the shootout after Moses Simon, Calvin Bassey, and Semi Ajayi failed to convert their efforts.
Despite the heartbreak, both Chelle and Troost-Ekong urged Nigerians to look ahead, stressing that the squad contains several emerging players capable of pushing for success at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
“There is AFCON around the corner,” the captain said. “This experience will make these players better, and if they face that situation again, they’ll be more ready.”
For Chelle, preparations start immediately. Nigeria, runners-up at the last AFCON, will attempt to lift a fourth continental title. After Sunday’s disappointment, the team’s response in the coming months will be closely watched.
