Stand-in Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong expressed his unwavering support for former captain Ahmed Musa, emphasizing that Musa remains the team’s leader even as he temporarily takes on the role of captain ahead of the crucial African Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying match against Libya. Troost-Ekong, a Netherlands-born central defender currently playing for Al-Kholood in Saudi Arabia, praised Musa’s exemplary contributions to the national squad. As the most capped player with 109 appearances and a track record of 16 goals for the Super Eagles since his debut in 2010, Musa’s leadership qualities and dedication to the team are recognized by his teammates, making Troost-Ekong proud to support him during this transition.
Musa’s illustrious career and impact on Nigerian football were highlighted by his remarkable achievements, including being the first Nigerian to score multiple goals in a World Cup match against Argentina in 2014 and the first to score in two different World Cups in 2018 with a brace against Iceland. His accomplishments at the youth international levels and the national team underscore his status as a role model for aspiring footballers. Despite facing challenges in his club career, including the termination of his contract with Turkish club Sivasspor in September 2022, Musa maintained resilience and recently returned to Nigerian football by rejoining his boyhood club, Kano Pillars.
Following his reunion with Kano Pillars, Musa made an immediate impact by scoring a pair of goals during his first match back in the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL). His performance in guiding the team to a 2-0 victory highlighted both his skill on the pitch and his dedication to contributing to the success of his club. Musa expressed his joy at returning to the NPFL, stating that playing for his childhood club evokes a deep sense of pride and an aspiration to make the fans proud. His enthusiasm and competitive spirit signal a positive trajectory for his career as he seeks to bolster his performance.
Musa’s last appearance for the Super Eagles was during the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, where he remained an unused substitute in Nigeria’s defeat to Côte d’Ivoire in the final match. However, with his ongoing standout performances for Kano Pillars, the likelihood of his return to the national squad appears imminent. His commitment to achieving success on the domestic front is viewed as a stepping stone that could lead to re-establishing his position within the Super Eagles. Troost-Ekong’s endorsement of Musa reinforces the strong bond and respect within the team as they navigate upcoming challenges.
This renewed chapter for Musa comes at a crucial time as the Super Eagles prepare for significant fixtures while seeking to maintain a strong squad dynamic. Troost-Ekong’s remarks not only signify the importance of Musa’s leadership but also highlight the respect and camaraderie that define the Super Eagles. As the team gears up for their upcoming match against Libya, the presence of veteran players like Musa is seen as essential for promoting unity and fostering a winning mindset in pursuit of qualifying for the 2025 AFCON.
In conclusion, both Troost-Ekong’s acknowledgment of Musa’s captaincy and Musa’s revitalized club career contribute positively to the overall morale and outlook of the Super Eagles. As they aim to strengthen their bid for success on the continental stage, the combination of experienced leadership and youthful ambition could play a pivotal role in shaping the team’s future. The upcoming match against Libya not only serves as an opportunity to secure crucial points in the AFCON qualifiers but also as a platform for players like Musa to reaffirm their relevance within the national team as they pursue glory for Nigeria.
