JamzNG Latest News, Gist, Entertainment in Nigeria
SuperSport has confirmed Nigeria and Fulham midfielder Alex Iwobi as part of its 2026 FIFA World Cup expert squad.
The broadcaster said Iwobi will headline a panel with some of Africa’s most celebrated football figures.
In a statement released in Lagos on Thursday, SuperSport Senior Manager, Communications and Partnerships, Sibusiso Mjikeliso, highlighted Iwobi’s credentials.
Mjikeliso noted that Iwobi recently earned his 100th international cap for Nigeria’s Super Eagles.
He said the midfielder had established himself as a key player for Fulham in the Premier League.
According to him, Iwobi’s experience at the highest level will provide spectators with valuable insight into the modern game.
“Iwobi offers a rare perspective that only a current elite-level player can offer.
“Renowned for his tactical intelligence and versatility, he will give viewers a unique insight into someone competing against the best in the world every week,” he said.
Mjikeliso said the appointment reflects SuperSport’s commitment to providing world-class analysis throughout the tournament.
He added that former Nigeria captain William Troost-Ekong will also join the broadcaster’s World Cup coverage team.
Troost-Ekong, the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations Player of the Tournament, retired from international football in December 2025.
The former defender expressed his joy at joining the broadcaster for football’s biggest event.
Troost-Ekong said: “It’s fantastic to officially join the SuperSport family for the World Cup.
“SuperSport is where I watched tournaments long before I played in the World Cup for Nigeria in 2018.
“Being a part of it now is really special and feels like a full circle moment.”
He said African fans remain the beating heart of football across the continent.
He said: “African fans experience football with incredible passion and knowledge.
“The whole continent watches together, supports each other and wants African teams to succeed.”
Troost-Ekong said he hopes to bring viewers to the tournament through a player’s perspective.
He said: “I know how these tournaments feel from the inside.
“Pressure, preparation and emotions can change everything. That’s the perspective I want to share.”
Reflecting on his playing career, Troost-Ekong described the 2018 World Cup as his greatest footballing memory.
“Coming up against Croatia and singing the national anthem was unforgettable.
“I was on the world stage at a time I had dreamed of,” he said.
He said the expanded tournament provided a significant opportunity for African football.
“This World Cup is special because we have a record number of African teams competing.
“It reflects the importance of Africa to world football and is something worth celebrating,” he said.
Also joining the panel are Ghanaian legend Asamoah Gyan.
Gyan remains Ghana’s all-time top scorer and the top African goalscorer in FIFA World Cup history.
South African football icon Siphiwe “Shabba” Tshabalala will also feature in the studio’s squad.
Tshabalala is remembered around the world for scoring the first goal of the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
Former Ivory Coast striker Salomon Kalou returns to the SuperSport panel for the tournament.
Current Philadelphia Union coach Bradley Carnell will provide analysis from the United States.
Carnell’s experience in Europe, Africa and Major League Soccer is expected to add further depth to coverage.
The station’s presentation team includes Andrew Kabuura, Carol Tshabalala, Thomas Mlambo, Thato Moeng and Mozez Praiz.
SuperSport said the expanded 48-team tournament will feature 104 matches across the United States, Canada and Mexico.
The competition runs from June 11 to July 19, 2026.
All matches will be broadcast live on DStv Premium, Compact Plus, Compact, Family and Access packages.
Games will also be available to stream on supported DStv packages.
