Super Eagles: AFCON 2023 MVP Troost-Ekong 'honoured' to be nominated for CAF Player of the Year

Super Eagles skipper and Player of the Year contender William Troost-Ekong.

Super Eagles: AFCON 2023 MVP Troost-Ekong 'honoured' to be nominated for CAF Player of the Year

Izuchukwu Akawor • Izuchukwu Akawor • 10:34 - 25.10.2024

Super Eagles skipper William Troost-Ekong has reacted to his nomination for the 2024 CAF Player of the Year.

Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong has expressed his gratitude following his nomination for the 2024 CAF Player of the Year.

The 30-year-old defender, who was named the Most Valuable Player at the recent AFCON 2023 tournament, took to social media to share his excitement about being included in the prestigious shortlist.

Troost-Ekong's nomination comes alongside fellow Nigerian star and favourite for the award Ademola Lookman, who plays for Atalanta.

This year marks a significant moment for Nigerian football, as both players are in contention for the award after Victor Osimhen became the first Nigerian to win it in 25 years last year.

MVP Troost-Ekong (m) of Nigeria celebrates one of his goals at AFCON 2023. |IMAGO

In his post, Troost-Ekong stated, “HONOURED,” reflecting his pride in representing Nigeria on such a prominent platform.

His standout performances during AFCON 2023, where he led the Super Eagles to a second-place finish while scoring three goals, have solidified his status as one of Africa's top defenders.

Troost-Ekong will battle teammate Ademola Lookman for the coveted award.
Troost-Ekong will battle teammate Ademola Lookman for the coveted award.

The CAF Player of the Year award recognises outstanding achievements in African football, and Troost-Ekong's inclusion in the final nominees' list underscores his impact on the field.

As Nigeria prepares for upcoming challenges, including next month’s AFCONQ2025 qualifiers, Troost-Ekong's performance will be crucial for the team's success.

William Troost-Ekong at the AFCON waving to the fans || Image credit: X

With two Nigerians among the nominees, there is hope that Nigeria can continue its recent legacy of excellence in African football and potentially secure another title this year.

Ahead of the CAFAwards ceremony in December, Super Eagles supporters will be watching closely, eager to see if Troost-Ekong can add this accolade to his impressive career achievements.