Nigeria's William Troost-Ekong retires from international football

The news comes in the wake of Nigeria's devastating failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a heart-wrenching defeat to DR Congo in the CAF playoffs, wrote Africa Top Sports.

The 31-year-old defender informed his teammates in the dressing room that the match would be his final appearance for the Super Eagles, leaving a team and a nation mourning the departure of a captain who embodied resilience, passion, and unwavering commitment.

Even in retirement from active play, Troost-Ekong will continue to support the squad, joining them in Morocco for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in a mentorship role.

He leaves behind a message of encouragement, urging the next generation to fight with the same determination he displayed throughout his career.

Since making his competitive debut in 2015 against Chad, Troost-Ekong became the backbone of Nigeria's defence. His legendary partnership with Leon Balogun, famously dubbed the "Oyibo Wall," helped steer the Super Eagles to the 2018 World Cup in Russia.

The apex of his international journey came at the delayed 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Cote d'Ivoire, where he captained Nigeria to the final and earned the tournament's Most Valuable Player award, cementing his status as one of the nation's finest ever defenders.

As Troost-Ekong steps aside, 19-year-old Benjamin Fredrick emerges as the promising new anchor for Nigeria's defence. But for fans, the departure of Troost-Ekong is far more than a tactical shift - it marks the end of an era defined by leadership, loyalty, and an unshakable fighting spirit.

William Troost-Ekong leaves the Super Eagles not just as a captain, but as a symbol of Nigerian pride and perseverance - a legend whose legacy will inspire generations to come. 

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