William Troost-Ekong, the captain of Nigeria’s national football team, the Super Eagles, has been a pivotal figure in the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations, demonstrating exceptional skill and leadership.

Born in the Netherlands and educated in England, Troost-Ekong has been unwavering in his commitment to Nigeria since choosing to represent the country at the international level.

A key player in the team’s recent 1-0 victory over Ivory Coast, where he scored a critical penalty, Troost-Ekong is currently participating in his third Africa Cup of Nations.

This latest win positions the Super Eagles, three-time continental champions, on the brink of securing a spot in the last 16, as they prepare to face Guinea-Bissau in their final group match in Abidjan on Monday.

In an interview with AFP, the 30-year-old center-back reflected on his journey with the national team since earning his first cap in 2015.

“If I look at the players we have now, I think it might be the best team I have played in for Nigeria. That is with all due respect to some of the legends that have been there,” Troost-Ekong stated, underscoring his belief in the current squad.

Despite the widespread acclaim for Nigeria’s formidable attack, led by African footballer of the year Victor Osimhen, it was the team’s defense that garnered attention in the match against Ivory Coast.

Troost-Ekong, who led a five-man backline, acknowledged the strength of Nigeria’s defense, which he believes has been somewhat underrated.

The Super Eagles captain, known for his commitment to environmental causes, is wearing boots made from bamboo and other sustainable materials during the tournament.

He was born just outside Amsterdam to a Nigerian father and Dutch mother and moved to the UK at the age of 12 for boarding school. Initially dreaming of representing the Netherlands, a call from former Super Eagles coach Stephen Keshi changed his trajectory.

“I didn’t have to think twice. It just felt right, and I haven’t looked back since,” he recalled.

Troost-Ekong, who has family ties in Uyo and Lagos, Nigeria, feels a deep connection to the country, which has always felt like home.

His professional journey has seen him play across Europe, including stints in Serie A with Udinese and in the English Premier League with Watford.

He recently joined Greek side PAOK, aiming to add to his achievements, which include an Olympic bronze medal won with Nigeria in 2016.

Reflecting on his career, Troost-Ekong said, “I have played in Serie A and in England, which are considered probably the top leagues, but for teams that are trying to stay in the league or to survive. Now playing at PAOK it is different because the ambition there is to win the league, win the cup and win the Europa Conference League. I am really enjoying it and I am hopeful that I can add some silverware to my career, here as well as back home.”

As the Super Eagles advance in the Africa Cup of Nations, Troost-Ekong’s leadership and expertise will be crucial in their quest for continental glory and beyond.