Since William Troost-Ekong made his Super Eagles debut in a 2-0 victory over Chad during an African Cup of Nations qualifier in 2015, he has emerged as one of the most dependable figures in Nigerian football.
However, whether he can be considered a Nigeria great invites reflection on his journey, achievements, and undeniable impact on and off the pitch.
Troost-Ekong’s rise to prominence hasn’t been without its challenges.
The Dutch-born defender, who chose to represent Nigeria despite playing for the Netherlands at youth levels, faced a tough road before cementing his place in the Super Eagles.
His perseverance paid off, culminating in his standout performances at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), where he not only helped Nigeria secure a silver medal but also walked away with the prestigious Player of the Tournament award.
Such accolades, combined with a nomination for the 2024 African Player of the Year, underscore his significant contributions to Nigerian football.
A career built on resilience
Ekong’s club career began in the Netherlands with FC Groningen and FC Dordrecht before he made a bold move to KAA Gent in Belgium.
Loan spells, including one at FK Haugesund in Norway, provided him with vital experience.
Yet, it was his decision to commit to Nigeria’s senior national team that truly shaped his legacy.
In 2016, he played a crucial role for the under-23 team, winning an Olympic bronze medal at the Rio Games.
His leadership qualities began to shine, and by 2018, he was a key figure in Nigeria’s squad at the FIFA World Cup in Russia.
At the 2019 AFCON, he scored a dramatic 89th-minute winner against South Africa to propel Nigeria into the semi-finals, ultimately finishing third.
The delayed 2021 AFCON saw Ekong assume the Super Eagles captaincy on an interim basis, further solidifying his position as a team leader.
Despite Nigeria’s exit in the round of 16, his performances earned him a spot in the tournament’s Best XI for the group stage, proving his consistency at the highest level.
A historic 2023 AFCON campaign
Perhaps the most defining chapter of Ekong’s international career came during the 2023 AFCON in the Ivory Coast.
Initially considering retirement after being sidelined under coach José Peseiro, Ekong’s return to the squad was nothing short of sensational.
He played a pivotal role throughout the tournament, converting penalties in high-pressure situations and scoring crucial goals.
His tally of five goals—a record for a defender in AFCON history—highlights his remarkable versatility and ability to rise to the occasion.
Although Nigeria narrowly lost the final to the Ivory Coast, Ekong’s contributions earned him the Player of the Tournament award and further solidified his status as a key figure for the Super Eagles.
At club level, he won the league title with PAOK Salonika in 2024 before to add to his achievements.
Just recently, he was recently nominated for the FIFA Best Awards for 2024 by world football governing body FIFA.
Also, he was awarded a special honour at the African Nations Football Awards (ANFA) in Cairo, in November, for his outstanding performance at the AFCON in the Ivory Coast earlier in the year.
Climbing the all-time appearance list
With 76 caps, Troost-Ekong is now joint-eighth (with Moses Simon) on Nigeria’s all-time appearance list, surpassing legends like Jay-Jay Okocha (75 caps), Uche Okechukwu (70 caps), and Peter Rufai (66 caps).
Having played for almost a decade with the Super Eagles, it clearly shows he’s been in the wars with the team and has battle scars to show for it.
This longevity and commitment speak volumes about his dedication to the national team, placing him among the most reliable players in Nigerian football history.
William Troost-Ekong: What defines greatness?
For many, a player’s greatness is measured by the trophies they lift.
While Ekong is yet to win a major title with the Super Eagles, his contributions to the team and his leadership qualities are undeniable and has to count for something-something tangible.
From vital goals and defensive heroics to inspiring his teammates, Ekong embodies the resilience and determination that define Nigeria’s footballing spirit.
He himself has acknowledged the importance of winning silverware for Nigeria, and with the Super Eagles on an upward trajectory, that dream may soon become reality.
However, greatness is not solely defined by trophies; it is also about legacy, influence, and the ability to inspire future generations. On these fronts, Troost-Ekong has already succeeded.
For this writer, William Troost-Ekong will definitely be in my top 10, all-time greats for Nigeria.
