Troost-Ekong Slams CAF, FIFA Over Rulings, Warns Of ‘Courtroom Football’ In Africa

Former Super Eagles captain, William Troost-Ekong, has blasted the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and FIFA, questioning recent decisions he says cast doubt on governance standards across African football.

The 2023 AFCON Most Valuable Player, who led Nigeria to the final, told The Athletic that off-field rulings are beginning to overshadow action on the pitch.

“African football seems to be the only place where you can play extra time in the courts, and it happens too often. Serious questions need to be asked about changing the outcomes of games in this manner,” he said.

Naija News reports that Troost-Ekong was reacting to two high-profile cases. The first involves CAF’s decision to strip Senegal of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations title and award it to Morocco. The ruling followed Senegal’s brief walk-off during the final in January, with CAF’s Appeals Board citing breaches of Articles 82 and 84 and awarding a 3-0 result in Morocco’s favour.

The second centres on Nigeria’s protest against DR Congo in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. The Nigeria Football Federation argued that DR Congo fielded ineligible Europe-born players under dual nationality rules.

FIFA, however, threw out the complaint on procedural grounds, stating Nigeria failed to meet the submission deadline and did not pay the required fee. The NFF has since indicated plans to challenge the decision.

Troost-Ekong said both cases highlight deeper structural issues that could be avoided with stronger checks before competitions begin.

“Maybe there needs to be more rigorous checks at the start of the tournament about whether players have the right documentation to play and if the referees are capable of making the right decisions. We need to give them the power to do that, regardless of whether it is the opening game or the final. This might seem basic, but it needs to be reiterated to give the players confidence again,” he said.

He also urged CAF to involve former players more directly in decision-making processes.

“Going forward, we need former players and people who have been a part of the most celebrated moments of African football to be involved with CAF and guide them on what can be improved. We shouldn’t have to try to fight from the outside. It will help CAF to truly understand what it takes to make certain key decisions. Former players, coaches and directors can help the organisation and structure of African football to develop so it matches the flamboyance and quality we see on the pitch,” he added.