Much-maligned Super Eagles CB Ekong earns praise from ex-Kaizer Chiefs star after goal v Lesotho

Former Kaizer Chiefs goalkeeper Daniel Akpeyi has praised William Troost-Ekong for his composure and leadership after the centre-back scored in Nigeria’s 2026 Fifa World Cup qualifier against Lesotho on Friday, October 10.

Troost-Ekong, who has faced heavy criticism from fans and pundits in recent months, converted from the penalty spot ten minutes into the second half to open the scoring for the Super Eagles. 

Since the conclusion of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, the 32-year-old has been under scrutiny for a series of defensive lapses, with some critics calling for his retirement from international duty, citing his declining pace. 

An error from the former Watford and PAOK defender led to Zimbabwe snatching a late equalizer during a qualifier in Uyo in March 2025, and just last month, he turned the ball into his own net as Nigeria were held 1-1 by South Africa.

Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle responded by dropping Troost-Ekong for the home fixture against Rwanda and substituting him at halftime in the clash with Bafana Bafana. 

However, Nigeria’s defensive crisis ahead of the Lesotho match, caused by injuries to fullbacks Bright Osayi-Samuel and Ola Aina, opened the door for the experienced defender's return to the starting lineup.

Chelle adjusted his setup, moving Benjamin Fredrick to right-back and reinstating Troost-Ekong in central defence.

"This game is more of mental because at this point in time if you begin to panic you might lose it easily. And with the Nigeria spirit that I know they will have to push until the end," Akpeyi said in a SuperSport broadcast monitored by allnigeriasoccer.com.

"They've proven it here, they came up with a strong mentality. First half was goalless and they have to push for themselves to make sure that they get the three points.

"For Troost-Ekong to step up because I know how many times he was criticized for the last game that they played. Now for him to step up to take that penalty, it's something that only senior players can do.”

Among the 22 players called up for Nigeria's final World Cup qualifier against the Cheetahs, only Troost-Ekong, Alex Iwobi and Wilfred Ndidi have previously featured at the Fifa World Cup.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

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