There is one thought that has followed William Troost-Ekong throughout the FIFA World Cup.
What if Nigeria had been there?
As one of the country's most respected footballers and a former captain of the Super Eagles, Troost-Ekong has watched Africa continue to make its mark on football's biggest stage with equal measures of pride and frustration.
Pride because African football continues to prove it belongs among the world's elite.
Frustration because he firmly believes Nigeria should have been part of that story.
“I think the motivation has always been there,” Troost-Ekong says.
“All of us are incredibly eager to see Nigeria back at the World Cup, and missing out again only increases that desire.”
“I would have loved to see Nigeria there because, when you watch the African teams performing so well, you cannot help but think Nigeria would also have put in a strong performance.”
“Looking at the quality and talent within the squad, I believe they would have been ready. Many of the players have matured, and some also gained valuable experience at the 2018 World Cup.”
It is not bitterness that comes through in his voice, but belief.
Belief that one of Africa's footballing giants has the talent to compete with the very best.
Belief that missing consecutive World Cups should become the catalyst for meaningful change rather than another painful chapter.
“It would have been wonderful to see them compete, but I also think this serves as an important lesson,” he says.
“We need to reflect on our preparation and identify what needs to change in order to reach the next level ahead of the next World Cup.”
“The players will continue working hard, sharing ideas, and doing everything possible to improve.”
“I have never felt there was a lack of motivation or commitment from the players. I simply believe there are several areas that need to change, and this time those changes will be essential if the team is to succeed."
A HISTORIC LEAP FORWARD FOR AFRICAN FOOTBALL
While Nigeria's absence still hurts, Troost-Ekong has found plenty of reasons to smile watching the continent's representatives continue to challenge the traditional powers.
The former captain believes the gap between Africa and Europe and South America has never been smaller.
In fact, he believes this tournament is where African football takes another historic leap forward.
“I think so,” he says when asked whether this is Africa's breakthrough World Cup.
“At the last World Cup, Morocco broke down those barriers and showed everyone what is possible.”
“Based on what we have seen so far in this tournament, many African teams, players and individual performances have demonstrated that they can compete with the very best in the world.”
“I am very hopeful that this could be the World Cup where an African team goes even further than Morocco did. If they reach that stage, hopefully they can go all the way.”
His faith in Morocco national football team remains unwavering.
MOROCCO CARRYING THE HOPES OF AN ENTIRE CONTINENT
With Morocco preparing for a blockbuster Round of 16 clash against France national football team on Thursday, 9 July (22:00 CAT), Troost-Ekong believes they once again carry the hopes of an entire continent.
"Morocco is definitely the first team that comes to mind," he says.
"Senegal and Ivory Coast both did exceptionally well too until their eliminations, and they were a bit unlucky."
Football fans across Africa will be hoping his prediction proves correct.
The Morocco-France showdown promises to be one of the biggest matches of the tournament, with a place in the quarterfinals at stake, and viewers can watch every moment live on SuperSport.
ENJOYING SA OFFERINGS
Away from the football, Troost-Ekong has embraced a different side of the tournament during his time as part of SuperSport's world-class broadcast team.
Instead of arriving as an opponent focused solely on training sessions and matchdays, he has been able to experience South Africa in a way he never could during his playing career.
“I have really enjoyed it,” he says.
“It has been great being part of the SuperSport team and meeting some amazing current and former players.”
“Although it has been a little colder than I am used to, I have had a fantastic time. It is also the first time in many years that I have been in South Africa without being here as a player.”
“When you are playing, you are naturally a bit more restricted in terms of what you can and cannot do. This time, I have been able to take everything in and experience some of the best parts of South Africa whenever I have not been working.”
The football has not been the only highlight.
“Absolutely,” he laughs when asked about whether he is enjoying South Africa's food and culture.
“I have enjoyed some great food, listened to good music in all the right places, and had one or two drinks since it is my off-season.”
“It has been nice to enjoy everything outside of work because, once I head back home, it will be time to focus on my other job, which is still playing football. Pre-season will begin, and everything will become much more serious again.”
For now, though, Troost-Ekong watches on as an analyst rather than a player — still carrying the disappointment of Nigeria's absence, but optimistic that Africa's story at this FIFA World Cup is far from finished.
If Morocco can overcome France on Thursday night, they will not only keep their own dream alive, but also continue carrying the hopes of a continent still chasing its greatest-ever World Cup achievement.
Watch Morocco v Franc LIVE on SuperSport this Thursday at 22:00 CAT, as SuperSport continues to bring you every moment of the FIFA World Cup — live, unrivalled and in one place.
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