Troost-Ekong reflects on retirement as Super Eagles chase AFCON glory
Former Nigeria captain William Troost-Ekong has expressed pride in the Super Eagles’ run at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, praising the team’s hunger and belief as they prepare for a quarter-final showdown with Algeria.
Troost-Ekong, who led Nigeria to a runners-up finish at the last edition in Ivory Coast, retired from international football in December 2025 after a decade of service. The 32-year-old defender had been named in Eric Chelle’s provisional squad but stepped away three weeks before the tournament, choosing instead to focus on his club career with Saudi Pro League side Al Kholood, where he now serves as captain.
Context adds weight to his words. Troost-Ekong was named Most Valuable Player at AFCON 2024, scoring three goals and taking his tally to five, the highest ever by a defender in the competition’s history. His leadership and consistency defined Nigeria’s campaign, and his retirement marked the end of an era for the national team.
The flow of his career reflects resilience and loyalty. Born in the Netherlands to a Dutch mother and Nigerian father, he represented the Netherlands at youth level before committing to Nigeria. He made his senior debut in June 2015 against Chad and went on to earn 83 caps, scoring eight goals. His final appearance came as a substitute against Gabon in November 2025.
Key incidents in his journey underline his influence. From captaining Nigeria at major tournaments to scoring crucial goals, Troost-Ekong became a symbol of commitment. His decision to retire ahead of AFCON 2025 was deeply personal, yet his support for the team remains unwavering.
The goals of his legacy are clear. Every cap, every anthem and every battle on the pitch carried meaning beyond football, as he himself reflected in his Captain’s Column for the SPL. His pride in watching Nigeria complete a perfect group stage in Morocco shows his continued bond with the team.
The second half of Nigeria’s AFCON campaign now awaits. Facing Algeria in Marrakech, the Super Eagles will seek revenge for their 2019 semi-final defeat, when Riyad Mahrez’s late free kick denied them a place in the final.
Late drama could again define the clash, but Troost-Ekong’s words serve as inspiration. His decade of service and enduring support remind the squad of the responsibility they carry.
Closing the chapter, Troost-Ekong’s retirement marks the end of a distinguished international career, but his pride in the Super Eagles endures. As Nigeria chase a fourth continental crown, his legacy as captain and record-breaking defender continues to inspire millions.