William Troost-Ekong, the Vice-Captain of Nigeria’s Super Eagles, has apologized on behalf of the squad to Nigerians for the team’s inability to qualify for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
After a goalless draw in Kumasi on Friday, the Super Eagles were held to a 1-1 tie by Ghana’s Black Stars at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja on Tuesday.
Nigeria was eliminated from the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar later that year, disappointing most Nigerian football fans and aficionados.
On Wednesday, Troost-Ekong wrote an apology statement on his verified Facebook profile. On behalf of the Super Eagles, this was said.
“On behalf of the team, we would want to apologize to all Nigerians for not being able to secure a World Cup ticket.”
“I tried everything I could, but it wasn’t meant to be.
“First and foremost, as Nigerians, we share your feelings and accept our collective responsibilities.
“We warmly thank the Nigerian fans for their unwavering support, as well as the NFF President, who went above and beyond to ensure the qualification, and, of course, the Minister.”
“A terrible pill to swallow,” the Facebook post stated, “but believe me, we will come back better and stronger.”
Fans flocked to the match location in large numbers to show their support for the Super Eagles, who were competing for a spot in the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
Nigeria has failed to qualify for a major tournament for the first time since 2006. After finishing below Egypt and Uganda in their qualifying group, Ghana was unable to qualify for the 2018 World Cup.
Senegal also qualified for this year’s World Cup in a rematch of the Africa Cup of Nations final, in which they defeated Egypt on penalties. Sadio Mane scored the game-winning penalty, as Egypt’s Mohamed Salah missed his spot-kick.
Morocco, Tunisia, and Cameroon will join Ghana and Senegal as Africa’s representatives in Qatar.