Super Eagles Captain Vows Not to Underrate Benin Republic as Team Seeks Redemption

• Super Eagles captain, William Troost-Ekong vows not to underrate Benin Republic ahead of AFCON 2025 qualifier, citing lessons learned from past mistakes.
• The 31-year-old's return boosts Nigeria's chances as they seek redemption and a winning start to their AFCON 2025 qualification campaign against Benin Republic.

Super Eagles captain, William Troost-Ekong, has declared that the team will not underrate Benin Republic as they prepare for their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualification match on Saturday.

The former PAOK Centre-back's return to the team is expected to bring stability and leadership to the Super Eagles' defense, which has conceded seven goals in their last three matches. 

His absence was deeply felt, and his return is seen as a major boost to the team's chances of success.

The 31-year-old stated that the team has learned from their past mistakes and is now better prepared to face Benin Republic and Rwanda in their upcoming matches.

The experienced defender, who recently signed with Saudi Arabian side Al-Kholood, expressed his confidence in the team's ability to bounce back from their recent poor performances. 

"We've had a tough time lately, but we've learned from our mistakes. We're not going to take Benin Republic lightly. We know they're a tough team, and we're going to be ready for them," He stated in an interview with Victor Modo.

"We respect Benin Republic, but we're not going to fear them. We know we have the talent and the determination to win. We're going to give it our all and make sure we get the three points," He affirmed.

The Super Eagles have been struggling to find their footing since their defeat to Ivory Coast in the final of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in February. 

They have failed to win any of their recent fixtures, and their defense has been porous. However, with the team's captain back in the fold, they will looking to turn things around.

Benin Republic, led by former Super Eagles coach Gernot Rohr, will be a tough opponent, but Troost-Ekong is confident that his team has what it takes to come out on top.

The match against Benin Republic will be a crucial test for the Super Eagles, who are seeking to regain their winning form and start their journey to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations on a positive note.