Former Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong has delivered a powerful message of support to the Nigerian national team as they gear up for a decisive Africa Cup of Nations quarterfinal clash against Algeria this Saturday.
Ekong's Heartfelt Rallying Cry
Despite announcing his international retirement just days before the tournament began in December, Troost-Ekong is passionately backing the squad from afar. In a heartfelt column, the defender expressed immense pride in the team's flawless performance so far at AFCON 2025.
"Watching Nigeria complete a perfect group-stage campaign and advance to the quarter-finals, playing with hunger, personality and belief, filled me with pride," Ekong wrote. He emphasized the squad's talent and strong spirit, expressing confidence that they will continue to inspire millions of Nigerians back home.
The 2023 AFCON Player of the Tournament, who came agonizingly close to winning the title with Nigeria two years ago, has urged the current team to embrace the moment and finish the job in Morocco.
Super Eagles' Impressive Tournament Run
Nigeria enters the knockout stage as one of the tournament's standout teams, boasting a perfect record of four wins from four matches. Under the guidance of coach Eric Chelle, the Super Eagles have displayed confidence and firepower, scoring an impressive 12 goals.
Their group stage victories came against Tanzania, Tunisia, Uganda, and Mozambique, showcasing a blend of defensive solidity and attacking flair. The offensive charge has been led by the dynamic duo of Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman, who have been instrumental in driving the team forward.
This form has cemented Nigeria's status as one of the favourites to lift the trophy for the first time since their 2013 triumph.
A Formidable Algerian Challenge Awaits
Standing between Nigeria and a place in the semi-finals are the Desert Foxes of Algeria, a team equally unbeaten in the competition but renowned for their defensive resilience. Algeria has conceded only one goal throughout the tournament, requiring extra time to overcome DR Congo in the previous round.
Their captain, Riyad Mahrez, has already issued confident statements ahead of the high-stakes encounter in Marrakesh on Saturday, January 10.
Historical statistics present a mixed picture. While Nigeria has a formidable record at this stage, having reached the AFCON quarter-finals 18 times and failing to progress only once, their recent head-to-head record against Algeria is less favourable. Over the past decade, the two nations have met five times, with Algeria securing three victories to Nigeria's one.
The winner of this blockbuster clash will advance to face either hosts Morocco or Cameroon in the semi-finals.
Chelle's Praise for Influential Iwobi
In related news, Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has made a notable declaration, identifying Alex Iwobi as Nigeria's most influential player at the tournament so far. This praise comes despite the significant goal contributions and headlines generated by stars Osimhen and Lookman, highlighting the Fulham midfielder's crucial role in the team's engine room.
As the nation holds its breath, the message from their former leader is clear: the moment is now for the Super Eagles to seize their destiny and march closer to AFCON glory.
