By Milcah Tanimu
William Troost-Ekong has emphasized that the Super Eagles will not underestimate Benin in their upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualification match. The team is better prepared and focused on their game against Benin, led by Gernot Rohr, and their subsequent fixture against Rwanda.
Troost-Ekong returns to the squad for the first time since the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations final defeat to Ivory Coast in February. He missed the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers and friendlies against Ghana and Mali. His absence has been felt, with the Super Eagles failing to win any matches and conceding seven goals in his absence.
Ahead of the crucial match against Benin, Troost-Ekong assured fans that the team respects their opponents and former coach Gernot Rohr. “We will be more ready. Good teams face difficult moments, and we need to respect Benin and coach Gernot Rohr,” Troost-Ekong stated in an interview with Victor Modo’s YouTube channel.
He added, “We are better prepared now and more motivated. We must learn from past mistakes. These games against Benin and Rwanda won’t be easy, but I have full belief in the team’s capabilities. We will prepare ourselves as best as possible.”
Troost-Ekong, who recently joined Saudi Pro League side Al-Kholood, is match-fit and expected to play a key role in the upcoming fixtures. The Super Eagles aim to regain their winning form and advance in their AFCON qualification campaign.
