Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong has described the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign as tough but exciting following the official draw ceremony in Cairo.
Ekong, who served as one of the draw assistants during the event, admitted that qualifying matches across Africa are becoming increasingly difficult due to improved competition and challenging away conditions.
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“The qualifiers will be tough but exciting,” Ekong said.
According to the Nigerian defender, away fixtures could play a decisive role in determining which countries eventually secure qualification.
“Away games will be very important,” he implied.
The Super Eagles captain highlighted factors such as hostile crowd atmospheres and difficult playing surfaces as major challenges teams must prepare for.
“Atmosphere and pitches can change everything,” he noted.
Ekong also stressed that consistency throughout the campaign will ultimately separate successful teams from those who fail to qualify.
“Consistency will be key,” he added.
The defender believes African football continues becoming more competitive as nations invest heavily in development and infrastructure.
“There are no simple games anymore,” many football observers continue to argue.
Nigeria will enter the qualifiers under pressure to return strongly after recent disappointments on the international stage.
“The expectations on the Super Eagles are always high,” Ekong stressed.
For the Nigerian captain, the message is clear.
Respect every away game.
Stay mentally strong.
And remain consistent throughout the qualifiers.
Because AFCON qualification campaigns are often decided by discipline, adaptability, and performances away from home.
