Former Tremendous Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong has expressed deep delight and renewed optimism as Nigeria continues its spectacular run on the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.
December marked a big and emotional turning level for the skilled defender, who formally retired from worldwide soccer after a outstanding 10-year profession in Nigeria’s nationwide colors.
Reflecting on the second, Troost-Ekong described the interval as “deeply private and emotional” following “10 unforgettable years representing Nigeria.”
“To have worn the inexperienced and white for a decade, and to have captained my nation, is one thing I’ll carry with delight for the remainder of my life,” he wrote.
“Each cap, each anthem, each second of wrestle and celebration meant one thing far past soccer.”
Though he has stepped away from worldwide obligation, Troost-Ekong harassed that his bond with the Tremendous Eagles stays unbroken.
“As one chapter closes, my assist for the Tremendous Eagles won’t ever fade,” the previous captain acknowledged.
He revealed that watching Nigeria full an ideal group-stage marketing campaign at AFCON 2025 and advance to the quarter-finals crammed him with immense delight and emotion.
“Seeing the group play with starvation, persona and perception was actually particular,” Troost-Ekong famous, expressing robust confidence within the squad’s capability to progress additional within the event.
“The expertise is there, the spirit is robust, and I’ve little doubt the group will proceed to encourage tens of millions again residence.”
Troost-Ekong additionally mirrored on the broader African soccer panorama, describing it as “particular” to see so many African gamers acting on the continental stage in Morocco, together with a notable presence from the Roshn Saudi League.
“Seeing teammates and opponents proudly representing their international locations is a reminder of not solely the power of African soccer, but additionally the standard that now exists in Saudi Arabia’s high division,” he added.
Because the Tremendous Eagles push deeper into AFCON 2025, Troost-Ekong’s phrases resonate as a robust reminder of his legacy—one outlined by delight, management and an unwavering perception in the way forward for Nigerian soccer.
