Troost-Ekong Marks 10 Years with Super Eagles, Pays Tribute to Keshi

Super Eagles defender William Troost-Ekong has celebrated a decade of representing Nigeria at the senior international level.

The 31-year-old made his debut for the Super Eagles on 13 June 2015, playing the full match in an Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against Chad. Reflecting on the milestone, Troost-Ekong expressed gratitude and paid tribute to the late coach Stephen Keshi, who handed him his first cap.

“10 YEARS REPRESENTING 🇳🇬 13.06.2015 – 06.06.2025,” he posted on X. “I will never forget the ‘Big Boss’ Stephen Keshi for believing in me to make my debut in Kaduna that day a decade ago.”

Troost-Ekong has since earned 79 caps, featured in three AFCON tournaments (2019, 2021, 2023), and played at the 2018 FIFA World Cup. He was named the Most Valuable Player (MVP) at the 2023 AFCON, where he captained Nigeria to a silver medal and scored three goals.

He also represented Nigeria at the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio, helping the U-23 team win bronze under coach Samson Siasia.

“79 caps, 5 major tournaments, 3 medals later. It is my biggest pride to be the captain of this nation and team,” he added.