Former Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong has urged Nigeria to go all out for victory when they face hosts Morocco in the AFCON 2025 semi-final later tonight in Rabat.
The high-stakes encounter will be played at the Prince Moulay Abdallah Stadium, with a place in the final on the line.
A voice of experience
Troost-Ekong captained Nigeria at the 2023 AFCON in Côte d’Ivoire, where the Super Eagles finished runners-up and he emerged as the tournament’s Most Valuable Player.
The Al Kholood defender retired from international football shortly before the start of the current tournament but has remained closely invested in the team’s progress.
Nigeria arrive in the semi-final in dominant form, having won all five matches, scored 14 goals, and produced one of their most convincing AFCON campaigns to date.
Praise for Chelle and the team
In a video message shared on X, Troost-Ekong praised the tactical setup under head coach Eric Chelle and highlighted the effectiveness of Nigeria’s midfield structure and rotations.
He noted that the Super Eagles have become the central talking point of the tournament, both in Africa and beyond.
According to him, a victory over Morocco on home soil would place Nigeria firmly on course for the title.
Unity over distractions
The former Watford defender also addressed recent off-field distractions, including internal tensions and player controversies, stressing the importance of unity and focus.
He encouraged the players to fight for one another, embrace the moment, and leave everything on the pitch, describing the occasion as a rare career-defining opportunity.
What’s at stake
The match has been widely labelled a “final before the final,” with the winner set to face either Egypt or Senegal. For Nigeria, victory would move them one step closer to a fourth AFCON title and cap a remarkable tournament run.