Troost-Ekong’s remarkable ‘responsibility’: PAOK defender makes history with three consecutive AFCON match-winning goals

William Troost-Ekong captained the Super Eagles of Nigeria in the most anticipated match against the Ivory Coast at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations

Super Eagles vice-captain William Troost-Ekong secured a victory for Nigeria in their clash against the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations host, Côte d’Ivoire, Soccernet.ng reports.

With this height, the former Watford defender becomes the first and only center-back to score three match-winning goals in three consecutive AFCON matches.

Troost-Ekong’s noteworthy contributions date back to the 2019 AFCON clash against South Africa, where his goal propelled Nigeria to a 2-1 lead after Bongani Zungu had equalised.

Continuing his impact, Troost-Ekong played a pivotal role in Nigeria’s 2021 AFCON campaign against Guinea-Bissau, helping secure a 2-0 lead and ensuring Nigeria’s advancement to the round of 16.

In the 2023 AFCON, Troost-Ekong assumed the responsibility of taking a penalty awarded to Nigeria, following a foul on Victor Osimhen.

The former Netherlands Youth International fired a thunderous strike from the spot, which handed Nigeria the victory to keep their AFCON 2023 hope alive.

Watch the video here:

Responding to questions about a defender taking the penalty instead of Napoli forward, Victor Osimhen, Troost-Ekong explained in an interview witnessed by Soccernet.ng

“I told myself I had to score today; that is what is on my mind, and also, as a captain, you have to take some responsibility in a big moment.

“Victor Osimhen was the first man to take the spot kick but as soon the penalty came in, he look at me and ask me to take the spot kick and of course I had to take that responsibility.

“With the penalty, you have to be confident and you have to chase what you want to do.” he said.

The Super Eagles of Nigeria are scheduled to tackle the Guinea-Bissau for their final game of the AFCON 2023 group stage, and a win will seal their ticket to the next round. Troost-Ekong, once again, is expected to play a major role in this event.