William Troost Ekong: Super Eagles Defender Names His Biggest Disappointment as a Nigerian Player

• William Troost-Ekong is currently the vice-captain of the Super Eagles of Nigeria
• The 30-year-old debuted with the national team during the era of Stephen Keshi
• Troost-Ekong has disclosed his biggest disappointment as a Super Eagles player

William Troost-Ekong has, over the years, developed from a rookie in 2015 into a defensive stalwart, as was evident at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

The 30-year-old, who made his debut for Nigeria under the guidance of the late Stephen Keshi, has since been a mainstay in the national team setup.

Troost Ekong has racked up 71 appearances with the Super Eagles and has donned the colours of the three-time AFCON champions at several tournaments.

Despite his progress, the PAOK Thessaloniki star disclosed his biggest disappointment as a player of the Super Eagles in a recent interview.

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In an interview captured by Score Nigeria, the former Watford star reflected on his most painful moments while representing his nation.

Troost-Ekong on his biggest Super Eagles disappointment

The seasoned defender mentioned the loss to Argentina in the 2018 World Cup group stage and the defeat to Ivory Coast in the 2023 AFCON final as particularly tough.

“The game against Argentina at the 2018 World Cup was as disappointing as losing the (2023 AFCON) final in Abidjan,” he explained.

Reaching the final after overcoming so much was a significant achievement.

“There were tears, we were upset, overwhelmed, it was an anti-climax.”

Despite losing out on African football’s biggest prize, Ekong was named the AFCON MVP, which he described as 'very special' and 'humbling'.

“This was supposed to be my last tournament for the Super Eagles. Now, it has made me even more determined to win a trophy with the team," he concluded.

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Troost-Ekong and the Super Eagles will have another chance to secure victory at the AFCON in the upcoming edition of the tournament in Morocco in 2025.

Troost- Ekong speaks on Super Eagles vacancy

Sports Brief also previously reported about Troost-Ekong's thoughts on Nigeria's coaching vacancy and his vision for campaigns to come.

The Nigerian defender advised the NFF to prioritise competence over nationality and identity in selecting the next Super Eagles coach.