The return of William Troost-Ekong to training has been a huge boost for the Super Eagles ahead of their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches against South Africa and Benin.
Troost-Ekong had not played since having surgery to treat an injury he sustained during the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations. During that tournament, he scored three goals, including a game-winning goal against Cote d’Ivoire, to earn the title of Player of the Tournament.
The defender, who was first predicted to miss the whole 2022–2023 season due to an injury, has unexpectedly recovered and is now eligible to play in PAOK Salonica’s final three league games of the year.
His prompt return is expected to give the Super Eagles, who have not yet won in the qualifications, a big boost. With Troost-Ekong’s leadership and defensive skills back in the fold, Nigeria hopes to reverse the trend and rekindle their World Cup qualifying campaign.