‘It’s been a pleasure, captain’ — CAF celebrate Super Eagles star Ekong after shock retirement

William Troost-Ekong’s announcement on X confirming his retirement from the Super Eagles, sent a wave of emotion across African football, prompting a tribute from the Confederation of African Football (CAF).

The 32-year-old defender, long regarded as one of Nigeria’s most reliable leaders, brought an end to a remarkable 10-year international journey filled with medals, milestones, and moments that defined a generation.

Shortly after Ekong posted his retirement message, CAF honoured him with a celebratory message on X, writing, “Legends remain, in their time and long after it. William Troost-Ekong. It’s been a pleasure, captain.”

It was the kind of farewell reserved for footballers who leave nothing behind, and Ekong’s legacy certainly fits that category.

The defender featured in three AFCON tournaments between 2019 and 2023, picking up a bronze medal on his debut, and later a silver medal and the MVP award in 2023, a historic run that sealed his place as one of Nigeria’s modern greats.

Despite being named in Eric Chelle’s 54-man provisional list for AFCON 2025, Ekong revealed that he had decided to step away from international duty. In his farewell message, he wrote, “HONOURED. GRATEFUL. FOREVER A SUPER EAGLE. Playing for Nigeria has been the greatest privilege of my life. The journey may end here, but my support never will. Here’s to the next chapter.”

His 83-cap career included leading Nigeria to the AFCON 2023 final, serving as a vocal presence in the dressing room, and representing the nation with unshakeable pride.

Ekong’s retirement marks the end of a leadership era for the Super Eagles. He had previously hinted during an appearance on Ben Foster’s podcast that AFCON 2025 would be his final tournament, but the defender chose to bow out earlier than expected.

After a decade of service that began under Stephen Keshi and continued through multiple coaching regimes, he leaves behind a void that Nigeria must now fill.

Former Super Eagles coach Sunday Oliseh believes Wilfred Ndidi is the natural successor, noting that the Besiktas midfielder has captained the team in recent matches and commands respect within the squad.

With a fresh generation of talents emerging, Nigeria now steps into AFCON 2025 without the presence of a captain whose personality, commitment, and consistency shaped the team’s identity.