Super Eagles vice-captain William Troost-Ekong has expressed confidence in his team’s readiness for their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against Benin Republic, on Thursday (tomorrow) in Abidjan, Ivory Coast.
Speaking at a pre-match press conference, Troost-Ekong acknowledged the strength of the opposition but maintained that the Nigerian team are well-prepared.
“The last game we played against Benin was in September and we won at home. We know Benin is a good team,” he said.
Gernot Rohr’s influence on Benin’s game plan
The defender also highlighted the tactical advantage Benin may have under the guidance of former Super Eagles coach Gernot Rohr.
“Gernot Rohr’s been my coach with the national team previously for over five years. As a coach, he knows the team very well. We’ve played games against Benin several times, and it’s always been a difficult game,” Troost-Ekong added.
Despite the challenge, Troost-Ekong expressed optimism about playing at a familiar venue where the Eagles played at the last AFCON, qualifying for the final.
“I think here, especially at this stadium where we have some amazing memories from earlier this year, we’ll be very ready. We feel at home here in Abidjan, and I believe we can do the job by winning tomorrow and that’s what we’re going out to do,” he said.
Acknowledging the importance of the match, Troost-Ekong emphasised the team’s focus and determination.
“We all know it’s going to be a difficult game so we have to be at our best, but with what I’ve seen so far in training and the spirit in camp, we’re very ready for the game,” he added.
The Super Eagles need only a point to qualify for the 2025 AFCON taking place in Morocco between December 2025 and January 2026, leading the group with 10 points, four more than second-placed Rwanda.
They play Rwanda in their last group game at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium, Uyo on October 19.
