Nigeria’s defender #5 William Troost-Ekong reacts during the Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) 2024 group A football match between Ivory Coast and Nigeria at the Alassane Ouattara Olympic Stadium in Ebimpe, Abidjan, on January 18, 2024. (Photo by FRANCK FIFE / AFP)
Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong has called time on his international career—just weeks before Nigeria kicks off its 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign on December 21.
The 31-year-old defender, who has been a pillar in Nigeria’s backline for nearly a decade, made the surprise announcement on Thursday evening through a heartfelt video message posted on his X handle.
“Today, I am announcing my retirement from international football,” Ekong said, his tone steady but emotional as he reflected on a journey that began in 2015.
Born in the Netherlands to a Dutch mother and Nigerian father, Troost-Ekong said wearing the green and white was more than a career—it was a calling. Representing the three-time African champions, he said, “was an honour,” and being “part of the group that showed that it is possible to come home to play and represent our beloved nation” remains one of his proudest achievements.
But after 83 caps, eight goals, and countless defining moments, the former captain said the curtain had to fall.
“The time has come to pass on the responsibility, to pass on the opportunity, to pass on the captaincy,” he declared.
Ekong reserved special appreciation for the people who stood by him throughout his national team journey—coaches, teammates, and most importantly, Nigerian supporters.
“To the Nigerian fans — the heartbeat of Nigerian football. Your support has carried me through every high and every challenge. I will stand with you as you stood with me,” he said.
The announcement comes barely 48 hours after his name appeared on Nigeria’s 54-man provisional squad for AFCON 2025, adding an unexpected twist to the Eagles’ preparations.
Troost-Ekong’s national team story began in 2015 under the late Stephen Keshi when he debuted in an AFCON qualifier against Chad. He went on to help Nigeria clinch bronze at the Rio 2016 Olympics, forming the iconic “Oyinbo Wall” alongside Leon Balogun—a defensive duo fans adored.
He featured in the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia and later earned a bronze medal at AFCON 2019. His crowning moment came in 2024 when he captained Nigeria to a silver finish at AFCON in Côte d’Ivoire, where he was named Player of the Tournament—a rare honour for a defender.
After nearly a decade of service, Ekong leaves as one of Nigeria’s most respected modern captains, his legacy etched in commitment, leadership, and pride.
As Nigeria begins its final stretch toward AFCON 2025, the Super Eagles will now march forward without one of their most influential voices—but with a legacy that will continue to inspire.
