Troost-Ekong Announces Retirement From International Football

Nigerian football icon William Troost-Ekong has announced his retirement from international duty, bringing to a close a distinguished nine-year chapter with the Super Eagles.

The central defender, 30, confirmed the decision in a post on his X account on Thursday, stating, “Playing for Nigeria has been the greatest privilege of my life. The journey may end here, but my support never will.” His post was captioned: “Honoured, Grateful… Forever A Super Eagle.”

Troost-Ekong’s international career peaked at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, where he was named Player of the Tournament. His heroic performances included scoring in the final against Ivory Coast and converting crucial penalties throughout Nigeria’s run to the silver medal. He departs holding the record for most AFCON goals by a defender (5).

Born in the Netherlands, he represented their youth teams before proudly choosing Nigeria in 2015. He earned 69 caps, serving as captain and becoming a defensive lynchpin for a generation.

His tenure featured iconic moments: a last-minute winner against South Africa in the 2019 AFCON semi-finals, a goal in the painful World Cup qualifying exit to Ghana in 2022, and consistent leadership.

While his club career continues, his legacy with the Super Eagles is secure—that of a warrior, a record-setter, and a leader who saved his finest performances for the national shirt.