The captain of Nigeria’s Super Eagles, William Troost-Ekong, has reaffirmed the team’s determination to win the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title and secure qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. In a recent interview with the Saudi Pro League in Ar Rass, Saudi Arabia, Troost-Ekong expressed his pride in leading the national side and highlighted the team’s ambitious goals.
Troost-Ekong emphasized that captaining Nigeria is an incredible honor, but it also comes with significant responsibility, given the country’s rich football history and massive expectations. Despite Nigeria’s potential, the team has often fallen short of expectations over the years. However, with the current generation of Super Eagles players, Troost-Ekong is confident about the team’s future.
The Nigerian defender praised the talented group of players in the team and stated that their focus is clear: to win the next AFCON and qualify for the 2026 World Cup. “I’m really enjoying the experience and trying to contribute the best I can. With the group of players we have now—who are extremely talented—our focus is clear: to win the next AFCON and qualify for the 2026 World Cup,” he said.
Troost-Ekong also reflected on the team’s performance in the last AFCON, where they came very close to winning. He noted that the experience has taught them valuable lessons, and as captain, the mission feels even more meaningful. “We came very close at the last AFCON, and that’s something we’ve all learned from. Now, as captain, the mission feels even more meaningful,” he added.
With a talented squad, including players like Victor Osimhen, Samuel Chukwueze, and Ademola Lookman, Nigerians are hopeful that the Super Eagles will bring back the glory days under Troost-Ekong’s leadership. The team’s determination to qualify for the 2026 World Cup is evident, with Troost-Ekong stating that qualifying is non-negotiable. “Qualifying is non-negotiable. We want to return to the world stage and make our mark,” he emphasized.
The Super Eagles’ focus on winning the 2025 AFCON and qualifying for the 2026 World Cup is a testament to the team’s commitment to restoring Nigeria’s dominance in African and global football.
