Troost-Ekong: Eagles Target 2026 World Cup, 2025 AFCON Glory

Nigeria captain William Troost‑Ekong has declared the Super Eagles' immediate objectives winning the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and securing qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.



The 31 year old centre‑back, who was named Player of the Tournament at AFCON 2023 and who led Nigeria to the final, reflected on the heartbreak of losing to Ivory Coast. He emphasised that the team used that experience as motivation for the challenges ahead.



"In my role as captain, it’s something very special. Our focus is to win the next AFCON and be at the [2026 FIFA] World Cup. We came very close last year with AFCON, and that's an experience we all learned from," he stated.



Troost‑Ekong, who currently plays for Al‑Kholood in Saudi Arabia, also reiterated the importance of their recent 2‑0 win over Rwanda in Kigali, saying it reignited their hopes in the World Cup race.

Editorial



We share Troost‑Ekong’s ambition and believe his clarity of purpose will serve as a rallying point for the Super Eagles. Having come within reach of lifting the AFCON trophy, the squad must now channel that near‑miss into hunger for success in both Africa and beyond.



His leadership is more than symbolic it’s being tested by pressure and delivered via performance. The victory in Rwanda and his unwavering public messaging show a man not afraid to shoulder responsibility, even as stakes rise with each qualifier.



Our belief is that Nigeria must embrace this moment. A captain with experience in Europe, Asia and at AFCON finals should be given the freedom to steer a talented squad through decisive moments. With humility, purpose, and unwavering commitment, they can shape their destiny.