William Troost-Ekong celebrates a decade with the Super Eagles, marking ten years since his debut in 2015.
With 79 appearances and unwavering commitment, the vice-captain remains a pillar in Nigeria’s defense and a symbol of national pride.
Super Eagles vice-captain William Troost-Ekong is celebrating a decade of service to Nigeria’s senior national football team, marking ten remarkable years since making his debut in June 2015.
The 31-year-old defender, who earned his first cap in an AFCON qualifier against Chad on June 13, 2015, has grown into one of the most respected figures in Nigerian football. In a heartfelt message shared on social media, Troost-Ekong expressed his deep gratitude and pride for representing the country over the past decade.
“10 YEARS REPRESENTING 🇳🇬 13.06.2015–06.06.2025. I will never forget the ‘Big Boss,’ Stephen Keshi, for believing in me to make my debut in Kaduna that day,” he wrote. “79 caps, 5 major tournaments, 3 medals later. It is my greatest pride to be the captain of this nation and team. No dream is ever too big. This is my purpose, and I will continue to strive to be better every day. GRATEFUL!”
Troost-Ekong’s journey with the Super Eagles includes participation in three Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournaments in 2019, 2021, and 2023, as well as the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia. His standout moment came at the 2023 AFCON, where he led Nigeria to the final and was named the tournament’s Most Valuable Player (MVP), scoring three crucial goals during the campaign.
Beyond the senior team, Troost-Ekong also played a key role in Nigeria’s U-23 squad that won the bronze medal at the 2016 Rio Olympics under the tutelage of coach Samson Siasia.
Reflecting on his achievements, Troost-Ekong acknowledged the lasting impact of the late coach Stephen Keshi, who gave him his debut. Keshi, a former Nigerian captain and coach, is widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in African football.
The Watford defender was also part of the squad that drew 1-1 with Russia in a friendly played in Moscow on Friday. Despite conceding an own goal by Semi Ajayi in the first half, Nigeria rallied back with an equaliser from substitute Tolu Arokodare in the second half.
As he enters his second decade with the Super Eagles, Troost-Ekong remains a symbol of consistency, leadership, and national pride, qualities that have endeared him to fans across Nigeria and the global football community.
