Troost-Ekong says Super Eagles not among Afcon favourites

Nigeria vice-captain William Troost-Ekong has claimed the Super Eagles are not among the favourites to win the Africa Cup of Nations.

The 28-year-old defender, who plays for English Premier League club Watford, also discusses the mood in the camp in Cameroon.

“Everyone is willing to go the extra mile, which I think is amazing,” Troost-Ekong told Football Focus as quoted by BBC Sport Africa. “We understand the challenges that are in front of us, but we all try to support each other.

“And when it’s time to crack a joke, we know when to do that as well. There’s a brotherhood in the team. Every day is exciting. It feels like one big family.

“It’s not just about us; it’s about the whole of Nigeria. We know there are 200 million people at home that will want us to give our heart and soul when we play. Whenever we play, everything stops in Nigeria for 90 minutes. And everybody watches the game.

“It’s good pressure and we use that to motivate us. There’s that moment when you’re walking out and you understand the magnitude of being able to wear the shirt. That’s something really special.

“We’re not one of the favourites, which I think could be a good position for us to be in.”

The Super Eagles will open their campaign with a game against the Pharaohs of Egypt on Tuesday.