William Troost-Ekong shared some lessons via a series of throwback snaps on his journey to wearing the iconic Super Eagles jersey.
Super Eagles of Nigeria star William Troost-Ekong has opened up on his journey to becoming one of the most influential figures in the national team, recalling the struggles that shaped his rise to captaincy.
The 31-year-old Al Kholood centre-back has become widely admired for his leadership on and off the pitch, inspiring fans with his dedication and hard work.
 "They threw me in the swimming pool — AFCON MVP Troost-Ekong recalls 'tough' journey to earning Super Eagles captaincy 1")
Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong has commented on the persistent rumours that Mohamed Salah, a star for Liverpool, is considering a transfer to the Saudi Pro League.
Ekong reveals birthday baptism amid Super Eagles journey
William Troost-Ekong at the AFCON 2023 || Imago
Taking to his official Snapchat channel, the AFCON 2023 Player of the tournament shared throwback photos from his early days in the Super Eagles camp, including a memory from his 22nd birthday.
In the candid post, the Super Eagles skipper revealed how he was thrown into the swimming pool by senior players while celebrating his birthday.
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“They threw me in the swimming pool. I said anything???…No. Times were different. As a young boy you accepted and earned your stripes. Work hard. Your chance. #EarnedNotGiven,” Ekong wrote in a now-deleted post.
Credit: Snapchat/William Troost-Ekong
The experience marked a defining moment in his career, teaching him valuable lessons in humility and perseverance.
Despite representing the Netherlands at youth level, Troost-Ekong chose to pledge his allegiance to Nigeria, making his senior debut in 2015.
Troost-Ekong with his AFCON 2023 MVP award | IMAGO
Since then, he has built a reputation as a warrior on the pitch, leading Nigeria to a third-place finish at the 2019 AFCON and earning the Player of the Tournament award at the 2023 edition.
His tally of five goals at AFCON remains a record for the highest number of goals scored by a defender in the tournament’s history.
Ekong to lead Super Eagles’ date with destiny amid fragile World Cup hopes
Troost Ekong leading the Super Eagles team || Imago
Troost-Ekong will be hoping to lead the Super Eagles as they gear up for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
Included in Eric Chelle’s 39-man provisional squad, the Nigerian skipper is set to play a key role as Nigeria faces Rwanda and Zimbabwe in two crucial matches this month.
With the Super Eagles currently languishing in fifth place in Group C, the upcoming fixtures will be make-or-break in their quest to secure a spot at the tournament.
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