Former Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong has released an emotional statement for the first time since announcing his retirement, urging the team to push for glory in Morocco, SportPremi reports.
Ekong, 32, announced his retirement from international football in a shock decision last December, few weeks to the commencement of the 2025 African Cup of Nations tournament.
The 32-year-old was initially named in Eric Chelle’s preliminary 54-man squad for the AFCON tournament, but his retirement made him unavailable for selection for the final 28-man squad.
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Instead, Eric Chelle selected the likes of Calvin Bassey, Semi Ajayi, Chidozie Awaziem and Igoh Ogbu to lead the backline in the absence of their former captain.
Highly-experienced midfielder Wilfried Ndidi was also announced as the new captain of the national team.
The Super Eagles have enjoyed a brilliant tournament so far in Morocco and will face Algeria in the quarterfinals on Saturday.
Nigeria finished their group stage campaign with a 100% record following victories over Tanzania, Tunisia and Uganda.
The three-time AFCON winners then thrashed Mozambique 4-0 in the Round of 16, sending a statement to their rivals at the tournament.
Ekong reacts to Nigeria’s AFCON 2025 run
William Troost-Ekong was named the player of the tournament after guiding Nigeria to second place at the African Cup of Nations tournament in Ivory Coast two years ago.
The 32-year-old is absent this time around, but has urged the team to continue their momentum to enjoy a better run that the last time.
“December was a deeply personal and emotional month for me, as I officially stepped away from international football after 10 unforgettable years representing Nigeria,” Troost-Ekong revealed.
“To have worn the green and white for a decade, and to have captained my country, is something I will carry with pride for the rest of my life. Every cap, every anthem, every moment of struggle and celebration meant something far beyond football.
“However, as one chapter closes, my support for the Super Eagles will never fade. Watching Nigeria complete a perfect group-stage campaign at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and then advance to the upcoming quarter-finals, playing with hunger, personality and belief, filled me with pride.
“The talent is there, the spirit is strong, and I have no doubt the team will continue to inspire millions back home”, the Al Kholood defender concluded.
Nigeria will play away from the Fez Stadium for the first time at the ongoing African Cup of Nations tournament, with their semifinal match against Algeria scheduled for the Stade de Marrakech in Marrakesh.
The clash will take place on Saturday January 10, with kickoff slated for 5 PM.
