William Troost-Ekong captained Nigeria’s Super Eagles in the high-profile 2023 African Cup of Nations match against Ivory Coast
Super Eagles vice-captain William Troost-Ekong led Nigeria to victory in the 2023 African Cup of Nations match against hosts Ivory Coast, reports Soccernet.ng.
At this height, the former Watford defender becomes the first and only centre-back to score three important goals in three consecutive AFCON matches.
Trost-Ekong’s notable contribution dates back to the 2019 AFCON match against South Africa. There, his goal gave Nigeria a 2-1 lead after Bonganizungu’s equalizer.
Continuing his influence, Troost-Ekong also played a key role in the 2021 AFCON match between Nigeria and Guinea-Bissau, securing a 2-0 lead and ensuring Nigeria’s place in the Round of 16. did.
At the 2023 AFCON, Troost-Ekong was responsible for stealing a penalty awarded to Nigeria following a foul on Victor Osimhen.
The former Dutch youth international scored a powerful shot from the penalty spot to give Nigeria victory and keep their 2023 AFCON hopes alive.
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Trost, answering a question about the defender taking the penalty instead of Napoli striker Viktor Osimhen – explained Ekong in an interview with Soccernet.ng
“I told myself that I have to score today. That’s what was going through my mind, and besides that, as captain, I have to take responsibility in important moments. No
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“Victor Osimhen was the first man to be penalized, but when the penalty was given he looked at me and asked me to take the penalty.Of course I took responsibility for it. em>
“You have to be confident in your punishment and go after what you want,” he said.
Nigeria’s Super Eagles will face Guinea-Bissau in the final match of the AFCON 2023 group stage and a win will earn them a ticket to the next round. Troost-Ekong is expected to once again play a key role in this event.
