Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong says leading Nigeria to Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) glory in 2025 and securing a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup is “more than a dream—it’s a duty.”
In an interview with one Football, the 31-year-old Al-Kholood centre-back opened up on the pride of captaining one of Africa’s most passionate footballing nations and the burning desire to deliver silverware.
“It’s one of my biggest honours—the biggest of my career,” he told the Saudi Pro League in an exclusive sit-down.
“Besides being a father, captaining Nigeria is something I hold deeply. It’s a role that comes with enormous responsibility.”
Troost-Ekong, a standout performer at the 2023 AFCON where Nigeria finished runners-up to hosts Ivory Coast, was named the tournament’s Most Valuable Player. Yet, the pain of falling just short still lingers.
“We came very close last time. That final loss still burns in all of us. But it’s made us even hungrier.”
Troost-Ekong with the 2024 AFCON MVP award. Photo Credit: X
With the next continental showpiece set for Morocco in 2025, and World Cup qualifiers underway, Ekong believes this current Super Eagles squad—littered with youthful flair and seasoned heads—is primed for something special.
“This generation is incredibly talented. The belief is high. We focus on winning the next AFCON and ensuring Nigeria is at the World Cup in 2026.”
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A product of Tottenham’s academy and a seasoned campaigner across Europe, Troost-Ekong has played in the Netherlands, Belgium, Turkey, Italy, Greece, and now Saudi Arabia.
Last season, he helped Al-Kholood to a respectable ninth-place finish in his debut campaign.
Troost-Ekong in action for Al-Kholood. Photo Credit: X
Despite his globe-trotting career, the Nigerian badge remains closest to his heart.
“I always want people to know that, first and foremost, I’m a Nigerian fan. We play for the fans—those moments of joy, unity, and celebration—they matter.”
“Football in Nigeria goes beyond the pitch. It unites, it heals. It’s why I give everything every time I wear that jersey.”
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Ekong’s journey with the Super Eagles began a decade ago under the guidance of the late Stephen Keshi, whom he credits as a formative influence.
Troost-Ekong. Photo Credit: Getty Images
Now approaching the twilight of his international career, the centre-back is determined to go out on a high. “To lift a major trophy with Nigeria—that’s the dream. That’s the goal I’m working toward every day.”
