Former captain and recently retired Nigerian International, William Troost-Ekong has encouraged his former teammates ahead of their semifinal clash against hosts Morocco at the 2025 African Cup of Nations.
Troost-Ekong was named in the Super Eagles’ provisional squad for the competition but announced his retirement from international football days before the final list was unveiled by head coach, Eric Chelle.
In a video message, the AFCON 2023 player of tournament issued a powerful, emotional and encouraging message to the players ahead of tonight’s all-important AFCON semi-final.
His message to the squad was clear, the Eagles must band together, play for each other and overcome Morocco, he also hinted that beating the Atlas Lions today isn’t just about reaching the final, but it would also psychologically crown them as the champions of Africa.
He said, “My brothers, the day is here. I cannot tell you how excited I am to watch you guys beat Morocco tonight, I’ve had a chance to speak to everyone here in Saudi Arabia; whether I go online, on radio, or TV, everything is about the Super Eagles. You guys are getting better and better with every game.”
“If you win this game against Morocco… you guys are gonna lift the trophy, I’m telling you. Just stick together and enjoy the moment. These moments only come sometimes in life.”
The defender, whose leadership led Nigeria to a silver medal in AFCON2023 and remains the highest-scoring defender in AFCON history, admitted that watching this special group of players perform brilliantly has given him a new kind of energy.
He also added, “Stick together, fight for each other… and If you continue what you’re doing now, you’re going to win.”
The Super Eagles have so far made winning a routine, scoring 14 goals in five matches, and Troost-Ekong’s message is expected to be a spark that energises the squad. The squad genuinely believes that their toughest opponent stands between them and the silverware right now, and beating Morocco in front of their 70,000 home fans would be the ultimate statement of intent.
