By Oni Ladonette Ondesa
Journalist, kick442.com-Cameroon
William Troost-Ekong, Nigeria’s talismanic defender and captain, has announced his retirement from international football, drawing the curtain on a decade of leadership, grit, and landmark achievements with the Super Eagles.
The 32-year-old made the revelation via a heartfelt social media statement, reflecting on a career that took him from a debutant under the late Stephen Keshi to the captaincy of one of Africa’s most iconic teams.
Troost-Ekong made his international debut on June 13, 2015, in an AFCON qualifier against Chad, quickly cementing his place at the heart of Nigeria’s defence.
Alongside Leon Balogun, he formed a partnership famously nicknamed “The Oyibo Wall,” a duo that became synonymous with tactical discipline. He was instrumental in Nigeria’s 2018 FIFA World Cup campaign and a constant presence in major continental tournaments.
His crowning moment came at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Côte d’Ivoire, where he led Nigeria to the final, scored in the decisive match, and was named Player of the Tournament. Over the course of his career, Troost-Ekong earned 83 caps, won three medals, and became AFCON’s highest-scoring defender.
In his retirement letter, he wrote:
“Every single time I have put on that iconic shirt to walk out onto the pitch, I have thought back to that moment. Going on to captain the Super Eagles was beyond my wildest dreams.”
🇳🇬 Naija Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong in action
Reflecting on his accomplishments, he added:
“To have achieved 83 senior caps, played in five major tournaments, won three medals, and broken a few records, I have lived my dream. Being able to lead Nigeria through the 2023 AFCON, scoring in the final and being named Player of the Tournament was something special.”
Troost-Ekong also took time to salute the fans who have followed him through highs and lows:
“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.”
The timing of his announcement has sparked debate among fans. While many have celebrated his career and bid him farewell, others are puzzled at the sudden retirement just days before Africa’s flagship tournament.
Critics argue he should have waited until after the competition, while some speculate that issues with the Nigeria Football Federation over delayed match bonuses, which Troost-Ekong publicly referenced in November ahead of the World Cup playoff against Gabon, may have influenced his decision.
Whether financial disputes played a role remains unconfirmed. What is certain, however, is that Skippo leaves behind a legacy of leadership, professionalism, and inspiration, having guided Nigeria through one of its most successful defensive eras and set a standard for the next generation of Super Eagles.
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