Super Eagles assistant captain William Troost-Ekong opens up on his love and admiration for former England international Rio Ferdinand;Â npflupdates.com reports.
Ekong was in action on Wednesday night when the Super Eagles defied all odds to beat the Bafana Bafana of South Africa in Bouake.
Also read:Â Chippa United Congratulates Extraordinary Nwabali For Reaching 2023 AFCON Final
Nigeria played South Africa in a semi-final, for the first time in over two decades; and while some football experts never gave Nigeria a chance of winning, the three-time African champions came out victorious. Thanks by Chippa United goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali who saved penalties during the decisive spot-kicks.
After the thrilling fixture, Manchester United legend, Rio Ferdinand took to his social media handles to appreciate Nigeria. The former England international, posted a picture of him holding out a Nigerian jersey number 5 with his name boldly scripted on it.
Super Eagles William Troost-Ekong react to Rio Ferdinand’s Nigeria gesture
Reacting to the viral post, Ekong who last played in England for Watford FC, said he’s ready to give up his jersey number for the Englishman.
“One of the few players I would be willing to give my number up for! Legend! 🇳🇬,” Ekong posted on his verified X (formerly Twitter) handle.
One of the few players I would be willing to give my number up for! Legend! 🇳🇬 https://t.co/pIc5RRndsS
— William Troost-Ekong (M.O.N) (@WTroostEkong) February 7, 2024
In a related development, South African outfit Chippa United congratulates goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, who’s the club’s only representative at the 2023 AFCON.
Nwabali has been outstanding for the Super Eagles of Nigeria since he made his AFCON debut earlier this year.
The 27-year-old was celebrated across Nigeria, Africa and the entire world on Wednesday evening when he saved two penalties to help Nigeria reach its first ever AFCON final in over a decade.
In a statement signed by Chippa United chairman Siviwe Mpegnesi, the club assured of their the 27-year-old of its support. The club is also rooting for Nigeria to defeat host nation Ivory Coast and win the 2023 AFCON.
Also read:Â Nwabali : Fan Jokingly Want House Rent Of Nigerian Goalkeeper Increased After Impressive Outing Against RSA
“The club wishes to extend its congratulations to Stanley Nwabali for his extraordinary achievement in reaching the AFCON 2023 finals and for also earning the Man of the Match award,” clubs chairman Siviwe Mpegnesi stated.
“Our support for you remains steadfast. You have represented the Chippa United brand admirably. And we are immensely proud of you. We will be rooting for you in the Finals this Sunday against the host country, Cöte d’lvoire. We wish you all the best.”
The Super Eagles will look to defeat Ivory Coast on Sunday at the Alassane Ouattara stadium Abidjan.
