Afrigather 
Tremendous Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong has returned to Saudi Arabia following his key function in Nigeria’s profitable outings in the course of the September worldwide break, Soccernet.ng reviews.
The 29-year-old centre-back skippered the Tremendous Eagles of their opening two matches of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers, delivering standout performances.
Troost-Ekong led Nigeria to a commanding 3-0 victory over Benin in Uyo, adopted by a hard-fought goalless draw in opposition to Rwanda in Kigali.
His management on the coronary heart of the defence was pivotal in serving to the three-time African champions maintain two clear sheets.
These constructive outcomes have positioned Nigeria on the high of Group D, forward of Benin, Rwanda, and Libya, positioning them nicely for qualification to the event.
This defensive solidity marks a welcome return to type for Nigeria, who had not managed a clear sheet since reaching the ultimate of the 2023 AFCON, the place Troost-Ekong was named the event’s greatest participant – a uncommon accolade for a defender.
He grew to become the primary Nigerian to win the award since Christian Chukwu in 1980 when Nigeria lifted the AFCON trophy for the primary time.
The Tremendous Eagles had struggled defensively in Troost-Ekong’s absence on account of damage, conceding in all 4 matches underneath coach Finidi George. Nonetheless, his return has introduced renewed confidence to the backline.
Troost-Ekong has since resumed coaching with Al-Kholood, the Saudi Arabian membership he joined from Greek champions PAOK in August.
ABU-OSCAR BACK TO BUSINESS 🛬🇸🇦 pic.twitter.com/n52Ynh5BN3
— William Troost-Ekong (M.O.N) (@WTroostEkong) September 13, 2024
Regardless of his arrival, the membership continues to be in search of its first league win of the season after slender defeats to Al Ittihad and Al Riyadh. They’ll face Al Orubah this weekend, with Troost-Ekong aiming to encourage his facet to victory.
