Super Eagles captain, William Troost-Ekong has set his sights on securing a victory against Benin when the two teams meet in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations Qualifiers at the Stade Felix Houphouet-Boigny, this Thursday in Abidjan.

Troost-Ekong arrived in camp on Tuesday, bringing his usual leadership and rock-solid presence at the heart of the defense.

Super Eagles players arriving their camp in Abidjan. Photo | NFF

The centre-back has been a mainstay in the team, leading with experience and an unshakable commitment.

“The stadium is a familiar one for us and we have good memories from the AFCON.

“We will rather focus on the positive results we have taken away from here and work hard for another good day in the office on Thursday,” Troost-Ekong said, per Oga Nla media.

The captain’s optimism is tempered with a healthy dose of realism, though.

Benin won’t be pushovers, the last time the two sides clashed in the World Cup qualifiers, Nigeria lost 2-1 to the team led by former Super Eagles coach, Gernot Rohr.

That defeat left a bitter taste, one that Troost-Ekong and his teammates haven’t forgotten. r.

But Nigeria hit back in the AFCON qualifiers’ first leg in Uyo, dismantling Benin 3-0 with two goals from Ademola Lookman and a strike from Victor Osimhen.

The Super Eagles were ruthless, showing no mercy in a match that felt like payback.

This time, the stakes are just as high. Both teams are chasing a ticket to the final tournament, and while Nigeria only needs a point to secure qualification for Morocco, Troost-Ekong isn’t taking anything for granted.

“It is not going to be easy because the Beninoise are also chasing a ticket to the final tournament. However, our objective is clear: three points on the night.”

The Super Eagles currently sit comfortably at the top of the table with 10 points.

It might seem like smooth sailing on paper, but the team knows better than to approach the game lightly as any slip-up could disrupt their momentum