Troost-Ekong Admits Nigeria Face Tough AFCON 2025 Group

Super Eagles assistant captain William Troost-Ekong has acknowledged that Nigeria faces a challenging task in their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) group as they prepare for the continental showpiece in Morocco, reports Nigeriasoccernet.com.

The three-time African champions have been drawn into Group C, where they will battle the Taifa Stars of Tanzania, the Cranes of Uganda, and the Carthage Eagles of Tunisia for a place in the knockout stage.

Speaking to CAF Media, the experienced defender said that while expectations remain high, the Super Eagles are not underestimating any of their group opponents.

“It’s a difficult group. Tunisia knocked us out in the Round of 16 at the 2021 AFCON and went unbeaten in World Cup qualifying. They’re a confident side,” Ekong said.

“Tanzania and Uganda are also tough opponents. We’ve met them several times in qualifiers, and they always give us a fight. There’s no ‘cruise’ at AFCON. We’re aiming for top spot to make the next round easier, but nobody here thinks it’ll be simple.”

Nigeria will be looking to add a fourth AFCON title to their cabinet, having last lifted the trophy in 2013 under Stephen Keshi. With a new generation of stars emerging and a blend of experienced leaders like Ekong, the Super Eagles are expected to be among the favourites in Morocco, but as the defender rightly pointed out, there will be no easy games on the road to glory.