Ekong’s Greatest Hits: Five Moments That Defined His Nigeria Legacy

Ekong’s Greatest Hits: Five Moments That Defined His Nigeria Legacy

By Admin 

William Troost-Ekong’s journey from the Netherlands to becoming the anchor of Nigeria’s famed “Oyibo Wall” has been marked by leadership, determination, and landmark achievements. A commanding presence in defence and an influential voice in the dressing room, Ekong has carved out one of the most distinguished international careers of his generation. These are five of his most memorable moments in the Super Eagles jersey.

1. Winning Bronze at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games

Just a year after making his senior debut, Troost-Ekong played a pivotal role in Nigeria’s bronze-medal finish at the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro.

As a central figure in the Dream Team VI, he brought composure and experience to the U-23 side during a taxing tournament. Nigeria’s dramatic 3–2 win over Honduras in the third-place match secured the country’s only medal at the Games.

For the young defender, the Olympic bronze served as both a career milestone and a launching pad toward becoming a long-term mainstay in the senior national team.

2. Last-Minute Heroics Against South Africa at AFCON 2019

One of Ekong’s most iconic moments came at the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt. With Nigeria tied 1–1 against South Africa in the quarter-final and extra time looming, the defender stepped forward at a crucial moment.

In the 89th minute, he reacted fastest to a loose ball in the box, prodding home the winner to seal a 2–1 victory. The goal sparked nationwide celebrations and underlined Ekong’s reputation for rising to the occasion when it matters most.

3. Leading From the Front: Penalty Against Host Nation at AFCON 2023

At the delayed 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Côte d’Ivoire, Troost-Ekong now captain delivered a moment that set the tone for Nigeria’s deep run in the tournament.

Under intense pressure from the home crowd in a crucial Group A clash, Ekong stepped up to take a second-half penalty. Showing remarkable composure, he sent the goalkeeper the wrong way to secure a vital 1–0 win.

The victory proved instrumental in restoring confidence after an opening draw and was a defining display of leadership from the captain.

4. Player of the Tournament at AFCON 2023

Although Nigeria ultimately finished as runners-up, AFCON 2023 marked the pinnacle of Ekong’s international career. His commanding performances earned him the prestigious Player of the Tournament award an exceptional feat for a central defender.

His tournament highlights included: Three crucial goals, including one in the semi-final against South Africa and another in the final.

Record-breaking achievement: With five career AFCON goals, Ekong became the highest-scoring defender in the history of the competition.

Outstanding leadership, marshalling a defence that conceded just four goals throughout the tournament.

Remarkable resilience, playing through injury while maintaining elite levels of performance.

The accolade cemented his status as not only one of Nigeria’s greatest defenders but also one of Africa’s finest.