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Nigerian defender William Troost-Ekong stunned fans by announcing his retirement from international duty on November 28, 2025. The 32-year-old captain of the Super Eagles decided to step away after Nigeria failed to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. This move ends a illustrious career that spanned a decade and left an indelible mark on African football.
The Dutch-born star participated in five major tournaments. He represented Nigeria at the 2016 Rio Olympics with the under-23 squad, securing a bronze medal. Troost-Ekong featured in the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia, where the Super Eagles exited in the group stage.
His Africa Cup of Nations campaigns shone brightly. In 2019, he helped Nigeria clinch third place in Egypt. The 2021 edition in Cameroon saw the team reach the round of 16. Troost-Ekong captained the side to a runner-up finish at the 2023 AFCON in Ivory Coast, earning a silver medal.
These achievements netted him three medals overall. The bronze from the Olympics and the AFCON podium finishes highlighted his contributions. Troost-Ekong’s aerial dominance and composure under pressure anchored Nigeria’s backline in critical moments.
Nigeria’s recent World Cup qualifying failure prompted his decision. The Super Eagles lost to Gabon in the playoffs, missing the expanded 2026 tournament in North America. Troost-Ekong expressed disappointment but chose to retire, focusing on club career with PAOK in Greece.
He will not represent Nigeria at the upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. The tournament, set for December 2025 to January 2026, marks the first major event without his presence since 2015. Coach Eric Chelle must now select a new captain from the provisional 55-player list.
