King Ekong: Zero to hero story of AFCON 2023 MVP News

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King Ekong: Zero to hero story of AFCON 2023 MVP

By Daily Sports Nigeria on February 14, 2024

William Troost-Ekong’s bruising tackles, vocality from defence, goal scoring heroics which saw him emerge as the Man of The Tournament at the just concluded Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast will see him go down in history as one of the best defenders to have donned the Nigerian jersey.

Ekong became the second Nigerian defender after Christian Chukwu to win the prestigious Man of The Tournament award and the first since Rigobert Song won it at the 2002 edition in Mali.

Interestingly, the defender almost did not make it to this tournament as he was close to calling time on his international career after being overlooked for over a year by Jose Peseiro.

And while going through an uncertain future with the Eagles, Ekong was in contact with his teammates and Peseiro each time the Eagles converged for games, wishing them well and reminding the coach of his availability.

Ekong eventually made the final squad and regained his place in the starting line up in Peseiro’s defence and did not just become a lynchpin of the back five, he showed exemplary leadership at the back.

He also led by example and was one of the best performers in the Eagles side that soared from whom not much was expected when they left for the tournament to the final.

Few players have led the Eagles with such confidence, panache and fearlessness on the field as Ekong. He was never scared to take responsibility during crucial moments and has become a reliable defender.

During the penalty shootout against South Africa, Ekong was to take the last spot kick but stepped forward to convert the fourth kick after Ola Aina had missed his effort from 12 yards.

To add to his growing legendary status, his goal against Ivory Coast in the final takes his tally to five, making him Nigeria’s highest-scoring defender in the history of the AFCON tournament.

The PAOK Salonica defender also made history at the tournament becoming the first defender to score three goals in a single AFCON tourney since 2010 according to Opta.

The 30-year-old scored the opening goal in Nigeria’s 2-1 loss to Ivory Coast to bring his total tally to three after scoring in the semi-final against Angola and against the Ivorians in the Eagles’ second Group A game.

His performance has also not gone unnoticed by former players and fans back home who admired his selflessness on and off the pitch.

Former Super Eagles captain, Joseph Yobo, showered praises on Ekong for his stellar performance at the tournament, hailing the defender’s grit and determination.

“He (Ekong) has been fantastic for the team at this tournament and he deserves his award. He gave everything as a captain and led by example.”

Midfielder, Joe Aribo applauded Ekong for his leadership qualities in the team.

In a recent interview with afrik-foot.com, Aribo said, “He’s been great for the team and one of the reasons we are strong and solid at the back.”

Ace journalist, Mimi Fawaz extolled Ekong’s impact at the tournament.

“A leader, a captain. I have known him since his very early days joining the Nigerian team. He’s grown professionally over the years and was immense in Nigeria’s defence during AFCON.”

Solace Chukwu also said, “William Troost Ekong, he was resoundingly the best player at the AFCON, a scarcely believable turnaround for a man who looked well on his way out. He’s a true captain and leader.”

Kenyan journalist Collins Okinyo wrote, “The Rock William Troost-Ekong fantastic player 100 per cent committed.”

Sports Minister, John Enoh also praised Ekong for emerging as the Player of the Tournament.

“We are proud of you. You took the silver, and we congratulate you and wish you all the best. Congratulations to William Troost Ekong, the player of the tournament AFCON 2023. Let us keep soaring!”

Source Punch Ng

Posted February 14, 2024