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Nigeria captain William Troost-Ekong has opened up on his deep connection with the Super Eagles, the passion of Nigerian football fans, and his burning desire to win the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) after narrowly missing out last time, Footynaija.com reports.
Following an impressive 2023 AFCON campaign in Ivory Coast — where Nigeria finished runners-up and Troost-Ekong was named Player of the Tournament—the centre-back is determined to go one step further in Morocco in 2025.
“It’s one of my biggest honours; definitely the biggest honour in my career,” Troost-Ekong told the SPL about captaining Nigeria. “Nigeria is a massive football nation, producing talent on an incredible scale. We probably have underperformed over the years, considering how much talent we possess.”
The 31-year-old believes the current squad has what it takes to end Nigeria’s AFCON drought, last winning the tournament in 2013. “With the crop of players we’ve got now, who are extremely talented, our focus is to win the next AFCON and be at the World Cup in 2026,” he said. “We came very close last time, and that’s an experience we all learned from.”
Troost-Ekong also highlighted the unique bond between the players and Nigeria’s passionate supporters. “The fans are the people we do it for. Especially in Nigeria, football transcends the sport—it unites people and brings joy. I always want them to understand that I am also a Nigeria fan.”
Now plying his trade in Saudi Arabia with Al Kholood, the former Watford defender is also deeply involved in off-pitch projects aimed at giving back to Nigeria. His Troost-Ekong Foundation, launched in 2023, empowers young Nigerians through football and education.
“Nigeria has always been special to me,” he said. “The love from the fans inspired me to create opportunities through the foundation. My dream is for the best Nigerian players to have the chance to play in top leagues across the world.”
With a second RSL season looming and AFCON on the horizon, Troost-Ekong remains steadfast in his commitment to both his country and its footballing future.
