Troost-Ekong: "The Nigeria jersey is heavy to wear"

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·15 Oktober 2025

Troost-Ekong: "The Nigeria jersey is heavy to wear"

Interview

Troost-Ekong: "The Nigeria jersey is heavy to wear"

Video OneFootball

After Nigeria’s emphatic 4-0 victory over Benin in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, captain William Troost-Ekong spoke with deep emotion.

The defender admitted that playing for the Super Eagles is never easy:

It’s not easy to wear this jersey, it carries a lot of weight. You always have to give your best and make people happy. Sometimes, it’s not enough, but we give everything in every match.

Troost-Ekong explained that the team has gone through tough times in recent months, facing a lot of pressure and several coaching changes:

We have suffered a lot, but we’ve stayed united. Patience is needed. This team will keep growing over time.

A call for support

The captain also called on supporters to stand behind the players before the play-offs:

We believe in ourselves. If the fans and the media believe too, we can achieve even more.

Troost-Ekong also praised the younger players for their energy and character:

Football has changed. Young players express themselves more, and that’s a good thing. They deserve support, even when everything isn’t perfect.

With these words, the Super Eagles captain reminded everyone that wearing Nigeria’s colors is an honor, but also a great responsibility.

🗣️ Troost Ekong: It's not good that players get criticized in the way they have been done...i think everyone is trying...is not easy to perform and make everyone happy... Source @NigeriainfoFM #SoarSuperEagles #WorldCup2026 #FIFAWorldCup2026 #NGABEN
– Rabu, 15 Oktober 2025