Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen has lauded team captain William Troost-Ekong for his influence and leadership within the Nigerian national team, even as the defender’s on-field minutes have reduced in recent matches.
The Galatasaray forward commended the 32-year-old Al-Kholood defender on social media after Nigeria’s emphatic 4-0 win over Benin Republic in Uyo, a result that sealed the Super Eagles’ qualification for next month’s World Cup play-offs.
‘An amazing leader on and off the pitch’
Troost-Ekong, who has captained Nigeria through multiple campaigns, has found himself increasingly rotated under head coach Eric Chelle.
He was benched against Rwanda during the September international break, played just 45 minutes against South Africa, scoring an unfortunate own goal, and only returned to the starting lineup against Lesotho, where he converted a first-half penalty
Despite not featuring against Benin, Ekong’s presence was still felt from the sidelines. Cameras captured him shouting instructions and urging concentration from his teammates throughout the match.
Osimhen, who netted a hat-trick in that encounter, later took to Instagram to acknowledge Ekong’s contribution.
An amazing leader on and off the pitch. You’ve always been there for each and every one of your teammates. Thank you, skippo,” the former Napoli striker wrote.
Shared leadership, shared goals
While Osimhen led by example on the field with one of his most dominant performances in national colours, Ekong continued to demonstrate the intangible value of experience and leadership from the bench.
The duo have been instrumental in shaping Nigeria’s competitiveness over the past few years, both serving as role models for younger players.
Their leadership will again be tested next month when Nigeria face Gabon in the CAF World Cup play-off semi-finals in Morocco.
The Super Eagles are bidding to qualify for the intercontinental play-offs in March 2026, a critical step toward securing a place at the next FIFA World Cup.