Super Eagles Coach Justifies Leaving Penalty Specialist Troost-Ekong Out of Shootout

Super Eagles Coach Justifies Leaving Penalty Specialist Troost-Ekong Out of Shootout

By BSN Sports 

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has defended his decision not to introduce captain William Troost-Ekong during Nigeria’s penalty shootout loss to DR Congo in the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers playoff in Morocco, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Troost-Ekong, widely regarded as Nigeria’s most dependable penalty taker, was expected by many supporters to come on in the final stages of extra time with the match locked at 1–1. Instead, Chelle opted to bring on Chidozie Awaziem in the last ten minutes, a move that immediately drew criticism from fans who questioned why the team’s most experienced spot-kick specialist remained on the bench.

Speaking after the match, Chelle said the decision was guided strictly by tactical judgment. He explained that although the squad had practiced penalties the day before, in-game dynamics often shift in ways that cannot be predicted.

“Circumstances change during a match,” Chelle said, noting that his decision could have been different had the situation presented itself earlier or later in the game.

Nigeria went on to miss three penalties in the shootout, while DR Congo converted four to secure a 4–3 victory, ending the Super Eagles’ bid for a place at the 2026 World Cup.

Despite the setback, Chelle said his attention has already turned to preparations for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. Nigeria, runners-up in the last edition, will be aiming for a fourth continental title, and the coach expressed determination to deliver a stronger campaign.