“Iwobi has nothing to prove,” Troost Ekong supports Fulham star despite criticism

• Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong defended Alex Iwobi, calling him a role model and dismissing criticisms about the Fulham midfielder
• Iwobi has consistently performed at the Premier League level and amassed 83 national team appearances since his debut in 2015
• Troost-Ekong praised him as a would-be Super Eagles great because of his influence as a role model for younger players within the squad 

Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong has come to the defence of Alex Iwobi, lauding the Fulham midfielder’s commitment and professionalism amid constant criticism. 

Speaking at a pre-match press conference ahead of Nigeria's AFCON 2025 qualifier against Rwanda, Troost-Ekong reiterated Iwobi’s importance to the national team, predicting that he will eventually be celebrated as one of the country’s footballing greats.

Troost-Ekong described the 26-year-old Iwobi, who made his national debut in 2015, as a “top role model,” Troost-Ekong emphasised Iwobi's stellar club career, which has seen him consistently play in the Premier League, first for Arsenal and now Fulham.

“Iwobi has nothing to prove, he always comes here on time, works hard, and stays quiet. Even though he has faced heavy criticism from fans and media, he continues to give his best for the team. When he retires, he will undoubtedly be remembered as one of Nigeria's finest players.”

Despite being one of the longest-serving members of the current Super Eagles squad, Iwobi has not been immune to backlash. His performances have often been scrutinised, with fans quick to point fingers during team struggles. At the last Africa Cup of Nations, Iwobi even had to disable his social media accounts due to targeted abuse.

Still, Troost-Ekong stressed the need for Nigerian fans to appreciate Iwobi’s dedication and achievements, citing his 83 caps and 10 goals as proof of his contributions, 

“Sometimes you have to appreciate the players we have here. All these boys are working hard, and they want to make everyone proud,” Troost-Ekong said.

The former Watford defender also reflected on his nearly decade-long journey with the Super Eagles, crediting Iwobi as a figure in shaping his Super Eagles career. Troost-Ekong, who has made 75 appearances for Nigeria since his debut in 2015, praised Iwobi’s consistency and professionalism, urging fans to give him the respect he deserves.

Nigeria prepares to face Rwanda in their final AFCON 2025 qualifier this evening, Monday, November 18, although the team has already secured a spot in the tournament. However, Troost-Ekong made it clear that the match would still be approached with focus and intensity.

“Ademola was unstoppable,” Benin’s coach Rohr voices out frustration in Super Eagles last game

Previously, TheRadar reported that Gernot Rohr, head coach of Benin Republic, candidly admitted his squad's inability to contain Ademola Lookman during their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier on Saturday in Uyo.

The Super Eagles’ 3-0 triumph was largely driven by the dazzling performance of the Atalanta winger, who netted twice to secure a dominant victory for Nigeria.