William Troost-Ekong has delivered an impassioned message to players with dual nationalities, encouraging them to experience the unique pride of representing Nigeria’s Super Eagles.
The Al Kholood center-back, who chose to play for Nigeria over the Netherlands, reflected on his journey and expressed no regrets, calling it “one of the best decisions” he’s made in his career.
Born in Haarlem, Netherlands, Troost-Ekong initially represented the Dutch U19 and U20 teams before opting to honor his Nigerian heritage. His choice was influenced by a pivotal phone conversation with Nigerian legend and former Super Eagles coach, Stephen Keshi.
That conversation, coupled with a standout season at FC Dordrecht, paved the way for his 2015 senior debut in an Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against Chad.
Since then, Troost-Ekong has established himself as a mainstay in the Super Eagles, with a career marked by key appearances in major tournaments.
Notably, he shone at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, where his performances earned him the TotalEnergies Best Player award and a spot in the Team of the Tournament. He also represented Nigeria at the 2018 World Cup and in the 2019 and 2021 AFCON tournaments.
On “The Sports Afterparty Podcast,” Troost-Ekong emphasized the rewards of representing Nigeria, encouraging players like Chelsea’s Tosin Adarabioyo to consider their roots:
“There are so many rewards playing for Nigeria, not only from a game perspective,” Troost-Ekong said on The Sports Afterparty Podcast. “It means so much playing for the Super Eagles when you are a Nigerian even if you’re born outside the country, because the people love football so much.”
Troost-Ekong, now the highest-scoring Nigerian defender in AFCON history, also highlighted the unmatched connection with Nigerian fans.
“It’s a different feeling if you play for the Netherlands or England than if you play for Nigeria,” he explained. “If you see how they carry the players when the team does well, there’s no feeling like it, and all the greatest moments I’ve had in my career to date have all been around the Nigeria national teams.”
Currently in Abidjan with the Super Eagles, Troost-Ekong is poised to help Nigeria secure qualification for the 2025 AFCON in Morocco, hoping to inspire more players to embrace the Nigerian green and white.
