Nigeria captain William Troost-Ekong has said that the Super Eagles are traveling to the upcoming AFCON 2025 with a deeper belief, shaped by the anguish of their defeat in the previous final. In an exclusive interview with CAFOnline, Troost-Ekong remarked: “We learned from pain — now we’re ready” as Nigeria aims to convert heartbreak into triumph.
Troost-Ekong, who plays in Saudi Arabia, described a camp imbued with fresh energy. “The team is excited … the last AFCON left a lasting impression for all of us,” he said, adding that the squad is eager for another chance at the title.
He admitted that in the 2023 final against Côte d’Ivoire, emotions got the better of his side: “We probably should have broken it down more and focused on how we wanted to play instead of playing the occasion.” This time, he stressed, the approach would be more measured.
While acknowledging Nigeria’s strengths, Troost-Ekong cautioned against presumptions. “I think that’s overstated [calling us favourites],” he stated, pointing to the quality of other contenders such as hosts Morocco and defending champions Côte d’Ivoire.
On what it takes to win the continent’s crown, the captain emphasized the blend of intangibles: “Heart, togetherness and consistency.” He noted that momentum must grow gradually through the stages of the tournament, warning against complacency or panic.
Speaking on Nigeria’s group — which includes Tunisia, Uganda, and Tanzania — Troost-Ekong acknowledged no match would be easy. He called Tunisia “high in confidence” and affirmed that matches against Tanzania and Uganda will require focus.
Inside the locker room, the atmosphere is light, he said. Troost-Ekong revealed that Samuel Chukwueze acts as DJ, Victor Boniface contributes comic relief, and Raphael Onyedika is often among the funnier personalities — but all are united in purpose.
Troost-Ekong ended with a plea to fans, thanking those who stayed loyal during Nigeria’s slow start in qualifying: “Please stay behind us … when all of Nigeria — 250 million plus — stands together, that’s our power.”
