Nigeria defender William Troost-Ekong is still hopeful that the Super Eagles will rise again after recent setbacks.
The Eagles have endured a disappointing campaign in the last few months first, they suffered disappointment at the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations in Cameroon where they failed to get past the Round of 16 after they lost 1-0 against Tunisia.
The Eagles had recorded victories in their Group D games.
In March, the Eagles then turned their focus to the World Cup qualification playoffs where they came up against Ghana.
After claiming a 0-0 draw in the first leg meeting in Kumasi, they earned a 1-1 draw in the return fixture in Abuja, a result that saw the Black Stars qualify for the finals in Qatar on the away goals rule.
Despite the ouster, the 28-year-old Troost-Ekong, believes the team will come back stronger from the disappointments.
He said; “It has been a tough few months for all of us, it’s a big heartache we have to keep on moving.
“When you fall down you have to stand up again, this team has been down before and came back and I believe we will do it again.”
Nigeria’s team is currently in Dallas, USA, in readiness for their friendly matches against Mexico and Ecuador and Troost-Ekong believes the two fixtures will “give the Super Eagles a good chance to refresh ahead of the 2023 Afcon qualifiers.”
“We all arrive from a long travel here in Dallas it was amazing to meet the coach and the new coaching crew.
“Training was good it is great to see there are lots of home-based players here as well who have the chance to show themselves. Everyone is in good spirit and we are waiting for one or two more late arrivals and we are preparing well for the game against Mexico.’’
He said; “So it’s great to be up for the friendly games and a chance to play in the Afcon qualifiers in the next few weeks, that would be a great chance for us to refresh and refocus ourselves and the focus would be on the next AFCON.
“Lastly, I have to say a big thank you to the fans, I will ask them and encourage them to stay behind the team we all know how much it means for us. We really appreciate your support so please stay behind the team.”
Nigeria will face Mexico led by new manager Jose Peseiro at AT&T Stadium on Sunday before they come up against Ecuador at Red Bull Arena on June 3.
VON