Super Eagles goalkeeper, Maduka Okoye has expressed his delight at the return of captain William Troost-Ekong to the team ahead of their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers.
Troost-Ekong, a key figure in Nigeria’s successful 2024 AFCON campaign where the team reached the final, will be looking to make an impact once again.
The 39 year-old defender netted three goals during the tournament and was awarded the Most Valuable Player (MVP).
However, he missed Nigeria’s recent World Cup qualifiers in June due to injury, where Nigeria drew against South Africa and lost to Benin Republic.
“For sure, there are important players and we need them also in the team like Troost-Ekong. It’s good to have him back, and for sure there will be a difference,” Okoye said in an interview with NFF TV.
Credit | X (OkoyeMaduka)
Despite his optimism, Okoye admitted the Super Eagles must be at their best to overcome the Cheetahs in the upcoming qualifier.
Nigeria’s journey to the 2025 AFCON begins with a home fixture against former coach Gernot Rohr’s side in Uyo on Saturday.
“These are very important qualifiers, and we have to be at our best and perform at our highest level,” Okoye added, emphasizing the team’s determination to secure victory.
