‘We have to win the game’ - Ekong assures Nigerians that Super Eagles are ready to claim victory over Benin

Nigeria's hopes of qualifying for the World Cup were given a boost following South Africa’s draw against Zimbabwe on Friday.

Eric Chelle's team took advantage of Bafana Bafana’s slip-up by defeating Lesotho 2-1 away from home.

Goals from Troost-Ekong and debutant Akor Adams were enough to seal the win for Eric Chelle's side.

The Super Eagles will now face Benin and Troost-Ekong is confident in the team's mindset as they head into the high-stakes encounter.

"We have a team of guys who have a winning mentality," the 32-year-old stated in a post-match press conference. 

"We want to be at the World Cup. We've said that now for the last nine months and we still have an opportunity with the game that we'll be playing in Uyo."

The defender also acknowledged the pressure and the specific requirements for the upcoming match. "Of course, playing against Benin, we know that we have to score a certain number of goals," he explained.

"It was always the case that we have to win the game, and we have to do so basically. It's going to be a big test again, but now, I think the team is really ready because we've been working on the pressure now for such a long time, and we all know this is the final. 

“We worked very hard to get there and, like the coach said, I'm also very proud of the team. We keep believing until the very end, and we'll speak again on Tuesday night."