Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong has expressed profound reflections on his ten-year journey with Nigeria’s national team, emphasising moments of pride, personal development, and lessons learned throughout the experience.
The seasoned centre back recounted the importance of his Super Eagles debut, which took place under the late Stephen Keshi on June 13, 2015, in Kaduna. He characterised the call-up as a “very special moment” that initiated a tumultuous journey filled with highs and lows.
“It’s been a long journey since then,” Ekong stated in an interview with Pulse. “There’s been a silver medal, and now there’s one more stop left; we’re aiming for gold at the next AFCON.”
He also expressed his joy in being the captain of the three-time African champions.
“To be the captain is something very special. It’s probably my greatest achievement and source of pride,” he remarked.
The former Watford and PAOK defender has represented Nigeria in five major tournaments, including the World Cup, Olympics, and three Africa Cup of Nations campaigns, earning a silver medal and a bronze medal along the way.
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Nevertheless, Ekong did not shy away from discussing the challenging moments, recalling the penalty he conceded against Croatia in the 2018 World Cup as a low point, referring to it as a “real learning moment” in his career.
However, he rebounded to deliver strong performances against Iceland and Argentina in the same tournament.
“I’m not trying to portray perfection,” he stated. “What people witnessed in the last tournament (2023 AFCON) is the culmination of years of experience, mistakes, and ongoing improvement.”
Ekong emphasised the necessity of playing with bravery: “You must play fearlessly to present your best self. I never dwell on mistakes; I simply strive to do my best.”
With another AFCON approaching, Nigeria’s captain remains focused, motivated, and more determined than ever.
