National Teams
AFCON Qualifier: William Troost-Ekong expects tough challenge against Rwanda
By Saheed Afolabi
Nigeria skipper, William Troost-Ekong believes the encounter against Rwanda won’t come easy.
The Super Eagles kicked off their start in the 2025 AFCON qualifiers with a 3-0 victory against Benin Republic at the Godswill Akpabio stadium, Uyo.
The Eagles captain is wary of the threat posed by Rwanda in Kigali but he’s certain Nigeria is superior over their opponent.
The experienced defender is delighted over the return of Augustine Eguavoen as Nigeria head coach which he’s optimistic will spur the team back to an enviable height.
“It’s my first time in Rwanda, the reception was great. We are here on a mission, we know Rwanda have a good team, we a respect them. They currently top our group in the World Cup qualifiers,” Troost-Ekong said at the Pre match presser in Kigali.
“We are looking forward to a great game tomorrow. The boys are ready, everyone is highly motivated. We hope the fans will see a good match tomorrow. We are very happy to have coach Augustine Eguavoen back with us, also at this important time.
“We are one big family, we are missing few guys, who are regulars in the team. It’s a full house, we are ready for whatever Rwanda will throw at us.”
Troost-Ekong revealed the Super Eagles are well motivated for the must win clash and he expects a positive outcome away from home.
“We are expected to win every game, we are motivated to win this game, the game against Benin Republic was good for us but we expect things to be tough this time around.
“You can’t compare Benin and Rwanda. It’s going to be a huge challenge. A game away from home. They will be playing in front of their fans. It will be a huge challenge for us.”
