William Troost-Ekong, captain of Nigeria’s Super Eagles, has issued a rallying call for his nation to reclaim their place at the summit of African football.
With the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and the 2026 FIFA World Cup looming, the seasoned defender is resolute that Nigeria must seize this moment to restore its former glory.
Speaking from his current base in Saudi Arabia, Troost-Ekong underlined the urgency of action, dismissing any lingering regrets from past setbacks.
“The time for regrets is over, and now is the time for action,” he declared, emphasizing the weight of responsibility that comes with leading a country where football is woven into the national identity.
Nigeria, renowned for its rich footballing heritage and abundant talent pool, has struggled to fully convert potential into tangible success in recent years.
Troost-Ekong was candid about this underachievement, acknowledging the need to elevate performance on both the continental and global stages.
“Nigeria is a huge football nation that produces talent on an incredible scale,” he said. “A nation that has also probably underperformed over the years, given all its talent.”
This admission highlights the challenge ahead for the Super Eagles—a team brimming with promise but yet to translate that into consistent triumphs.
The sting of the 2023 AFCON final defeat to Côte d’Ivoire remains fresh. That narrow loss left a mark on the squad but has also steeled their resolve.
Troost-Ekong sees the disappointment not as a setback but as a stepping stone towards future success.
“Our goal is to win the next CAN and to be at the 2026 World Cup,” he stated firmly. Victory at the Africa Cup of Nations next year is not just a dream but a clear mandate for the team, which boasts a blend of experienced campaigners and exciting young talent.
Looking beyond Africa, the 2026 World Cup is already firmly in the minds of the Super Eagles and their supporters. For Troost-Ekong, the objective transcends mere qualification.
It’s about making a mark and demonstrating that Nigeria can compete with the best in the world.
“The World Cup is the biggest stage,” he remarked. “We want not just to participate but to shine.” His ambition captures a broader desire within Nigerian football to reclaim international respect and revive the nation’s status as a powerhouse.
As captain, Troost-Ekong embodies the leadership and determination needed to galvanize the squad. His experience playing abroad and commitment to the national team serve as an example to teammates and fans alike.
With the countdown to AFCON 2025 well underway, Nigeria’s Super Eagles face the challenge of translating their abundant talent into trophies. Troost-Ekong’s call to arms resonates as a clear signal that the team is ready to rise again.
In a football-crazed country where expectations run high, the message is unequivocal: it is time for Nigeria to reconquer their title and reclaim their place among Africa’s elite. For Troost-Ekong and the Super Eagles, the future is one of ambition, pride, and the pursuit of continental and global triumph.
