Troost Ekong Recalls Lionel Messi’s Epic Goal Against Nigeria at 2018 FIFA World Cup

• Lionel Messi has scored some fantastic goals against Nigeria
• The Barcelona icon scored most of these goals at World Cups
• William Troost-Ekong recalled Messi's one at the 2018 edition

Lionel Messi has faced Nigeria a few times in the last few years, mainly at the FIFA World Cup.

The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner scored a phenomenal goal against the Super Eagles at the 2018 World Cup to send his country to the last 16.

Nigeria defender, William Troost-Ekong, has recalled Messi's goal, saying he is the best player he has ever faced.

Argentina were poor at the 2018 World Cup in Russia, but Messi produced a magical and unforgettable moment in their group-stage clash against the Super Eagles.

In the 14th minute, Ever Banega picked up the ball on the halfway line before playing a sublime lofted pass to Messi.

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The Inter Miami star cushioned the pass with his left thigh into his left foot. Messi outwitted defender, Kenneth Omeruo, and then thumped the ball with his right foot past goalkeeper, Francis Uzoho, to give his team the lead, per The Independent.

During all of these spectacular moments, Troost-Ekong could only watch. The AFCON player of the tournament said Messi was the greatest player he'd ever faced, and then recalled that superb goal.

"It would have to be Lionel Messi at the World Cup. We lost 2-1, last minute, and he scored the first goal and it was something special," Troost-Ekong said per 90min.

"He took it over the shoulder with the back of his heel with his right foot, and I remember I felt like I almost wanted to clap - it was something special."

Troost-Ekong also praised Messi's unpredictability on the pitch.

"Sometimes it looked like he wasn't involved in the game, but then when he was, he was someone that we couldn't stop so I think that's the hardest thing - when someone's unpredictable and can literally do everything with the ball. I think that's what makes him special."

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France knocked Messi and Argentina out of the 2018 tournament but the South Americans won the title in 2022.

Troost-Ekong on Osimhen

Sports Brief also previously reported on Troost-Ekong listing why Victor Osimhen is special as clubs vie for the Nigerian star's signature.

The defender pointed at his teammate's physical ability, work ethic, and goal-scoring ability as some attributes that make Osimhen special.

Troost-Ekong wins AFCON award

Sports Brief also earlier reported on Troost-Ekong winning 'Player of the Tournament' at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast.

The PAOK Thessaloniki defender was incredible for Nigeria, scoring three goals, including the opener in the final against the host nation.