AFCON 2023: Troost Ekong Sets New Record As Super Eagles Qualify for Final

• William Troost-Ekong equalled Stephen Keshi’s AFCON record for Nigeria
• The Super Eagles star has scored four AFCON goals, the same as Keshi
• Nigeria reached the AFCON final after defeating Hugo Broos' South Africa

William Troost-Ekong has become only the second Nigerian defender to score four goals at the Africa Cup of Nations after netting in the Super Eagles' semi-final victory against South Africa.

The Super Eagles vice-captain gave Nigeria the lead against Bafana Bafana from the penalty spot to take his total tally at the 2023 AFCON edition to two goals from five games.

Troost Ekong has now equalled late legendary Nigerian defender and coach Stephen Keshi as the only Super Eagles defenders to have scored four goals at the AFCON.

According to ESPN, the 30-year-old defender and goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali have emerged as heroes for the Super Eagles for their immense composure during moments of pressure during the competition.

AFCON 2023: Ex Bafana Bafana captain backs Super Eagles to win tournament

Football

Troost-Ekong will hope to emulate Keshi by lifting the AFCON for Nigeria just like the late coach did with the national team after winning the competition as a player in 1994 and as a coach in 2013.

Ekong reacts to Ferdinand’s post

Meanwhile, Troost-Ekong has reacted to Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand's show of support for the Super Eagles following Nigeria’s victory over South Africa on Wednesday, All Nigeria Soccer reports.

Ferdinand hailed the Super Eagles on social media after the three-time African champions zoomed into the AFCON final following a 4-2 penalty shootout victory against Bafana Bafana.

Troost-Ekong quoted the post by appreciating the Manchester United legend’s support, stating how much he adores the former Red Devils defender and how he would love to give up his jersey number for the former England international.

Peseiro applauds South Africa’s efforts

AFCON 2023: Peseiro admits Super Eagles are not favourites ahead of Angola tie

Football

Earlier, Sports Brief reported that Super Eagles coach Jose Peseiro has heaped praise on South Africa following their Africa Cup of Nations semi-final loss to Nigeria.

The 63-year-old Portuguese tactician even claimed Bafana Bafana deserved to win against Nigeria because of their impressive performance throughout the intense game.

South Africa controlled the ball and had several good opportunities during the match as Percy Tau and Khuliso Mudau both squandered significant opportunities for Bafana Bafana.