Troost-Ekong backs Bafana World Cup credentials but issues stern warning
Former Nigerian captain William Troost-Ekong praised South Africa’s presence at the 2026 World Cup but warned of a looming group-stage exit due to crucial player suspensions ahead of their must-win finale against South Korea.
Former Nigeria captain William Troost-Ekong has endorsed South Africa’s right to compete at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, asserting that Bafana Bafana thoroughly deserve their place on the global stage.
However, the veteran defender issued a stark warning regarding their impending Group A finale against South Korea in Monterrey. Troost-Ekong emphasized that the suspension of vital personnel could heavily compromise South Africa’s tactical setup.
Head coach Hugo Broos faces an uphill battle to keep the nation’s tournament dreams alive following a gritty 1-1 draw against Czechia in Atlanta.
While the hard-earned point kept their knockout round permutations mathematically viable, yellow card accumulations have ruled out midfield talisman Teboho Mokoena, who scored the dramatic late equalizer. Bafana Bafana must now secure a victory against the South Koreans without key starters.
