2026 World Cup Qualifiers: Nigeria Get Boost As Troost Ekong Returns to Full Training

• William Troost-Ekong has returned to training after a few months
• The Super Eagles vice-captain has been out injured since February
• He captained Nigeria to win silver at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations

Nigeria has received a massive boost ahead of their upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against South Africa and the Benin Republic in June, with the return to fitness of William Troost-Ekong.

The 30-year-old defender was instrumental to the Super Eagles success' at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast, scoring three goals to lead the team to the silver medal at the competition.

According to Complete Sports, Ekong has made a timely recovery after rupturing his biceps femoris in his right leg at the AFCON, which required the Super Eagles captain to undergo surgery.

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The PAOK defender was expected to miss the rest of the season after going under the knife at the end of the tourney but he has miraculously recovered in time for the close of the season.

Troost-Ekong, who was pictured training with the rest of his club teammates, is expected to be named in PAOK’s squad for their final three matches of the season in Greece.

Finidi assures of World Cup ticket

Meanwhile, newly appointed Super Eagles coach, Finidi George, has promised victory in the World Cup qualifiers against South Africa and the Benin Republic next month, BSN Sports reports.

The Super Eagles will host Bafana Bafana at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo on June 7 before travelling to Ivory Coast to tackle the Squirrels in two must-win games for the Nigerian team.

Nigeria is presently third in Group C of the African qualifiers behind Rwanda and South Africa, after garnering only two points from their opening two matches against Lesotho and Zimbabwe.

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Ekong eyes return to action

Earlier, Sports Brief reported that Nigerians are eagerly anticipating Troost-Ekong's return to full fitness after he underwent surgery for his leg injury.

The PAOK defender was expected to swiftly return to action, just in time for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against South Africa and Benin in June.

Taking to Instagram, Ekong showcased his dedication and perseverance as he worked on the grass, signalling his determination to return to full fitness.