‘The Talent Is There’ – Troost-Ekong backs Eagles ahead of Algeria test

Nigeria’s former captain William Troost-Ekong has urged the Super Eagles to seize their moment at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations as they prepare for Saturday’s quarter-final clash against Algeria in Marrakesh. The Super Eagles meet the Riyad Mahrez-inspired Desert Warriors with a place in the semi-finals at stake, with both teams arriving in strong form.

Nigeria have won all four matches so far, including a 4-0 win over Mozambique, while Algeria boast a perfect defensive record. Watching from afar, Troost-Ekong admitted retirement was emotional, but insisted his bond remains. “December was a deeply personal and emotional month for me…” he wrote, adding that “my support for the Super Eagles will never fade…”. He said “The talent is there, the spirit is strong…”, backing Nigeria to rise again. History favours Nigeria, who have fallen only once