Setting African Standards: Troost-Ekong praises Rwanda's world class stadium, hospitality on second visit

Troost-Ekong pays glowing tribute to Rwanda's neatness and world class facilities. (Photo Credit: Troost-Ekong/X)

Setting African Standards: Troost-Ekong praises Rwanda's world class stadium, hospitality on second visit

Izuchukwu Akawor • Izuchukwu Akawor • 09:25 - 22.03.2025

Nigerian skipper William Troost-Ekong has hailed Rwanda’s stadium and hospitality after leading the Super Eagles to a crucial win in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier.

Super Eagles defender William Troost-Ekong couldn’t hold back his admiration for Rwanda following Nigeria’s 2-0 victory in a 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier in Kigali.

In a heartfelt video posted on X after the match, the centre-back praised the host nation, not just for their hospitality off the pitch but for setting a benchmark for football infrastructure across Africa.

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“This is my second time in Rwanda, the first time was great,” Troost-Ekong began, reflecting on his experiences in the East African nation.

“When I walked into the stadium, I think this is the best stadium I have seen in Africa. Big compliments to what’s been done here, the facilities. I think Rwanda has set the standards for how things should be in Africa.”

Troost-Ekong believes Rwanda is a perfect model to unite Africans.
Troost-Ekong believes Rwanda is a perfect model to unite Africans.

The Super Eagles’ victory, powered by Victor Osimhen’s brace, marked their first win in the qualifying campaign, but Troost-Ekong’s post-match thoughts went beyond the result.

He highlighted Rwanda’s broader impact, suggesting it as a model for continental unity and progress.

The Rwanda world class stadium in Kigali.

“This is also one thing that we have to do, unite as a continent, and I think Rwanda has set a great example, from the cleanliness to the hotels, the airport, everywhere we’ve been so far,” he said.

The defender, a key figure in Nigeria’s backline, also spoke warmly of the Rwandan people.

Troost-Ekong led the Super Eagles again with class.

“The people have been friendly, they’ve been welcoming,” he noted, before adding a nod to the competitive spirit on the field: “[But] it’s always difficult when you are on the pitch because you’re fighting for the same thing. Besides that, they are respectful.”

Troost-Ekong’s glowing review spotlights Rwanda’s growing reputation as a standout host in African football, blending top-tier facilities with a welcoming atmosphere.

The Super Eagles have rekindled Nigeria's 2026 World Cup dreams.

For the Super Eagles, the win was the headline, but the defender’s words painted a bigger picture, one where Rwanda’s efforts off the pitch earned as much respect as the battle fought on it.