IDNN Sports Desk
Veteran Nigeria defender William Troost-Ekong has singled out teenager Benjamin Fredrick for praise after the Brentford loanee impressed on his first competitive start in Saturday’s 1–0 win over Rwanda.
The 19-year-old, who joined Brentford on loan last season and won their B team’s Player’s Player of the Year, was a surprise starter in Uyo as coach Eric Chelle opted for youth over experience. Fredrick rewarded that faith with a composed defensive showing, nullifying Rwandan counterattacks and contributing to Nigeria’s first clean sheet in months.
“I just want to say congratulations to Benjamin. He had an amazing game today. To come into a high-pressure match like this at his age and play like that is not easy — especially here in Uyo,” Troost-Ekong told reporters post-match, quickly diverting focus away from questions about his own absence from the starting XI.
Fredrick’s debut has now sparked debate over whether Chelle should retain him for Tuesday’s pivotal clash against South Africa in Johannesburg, or revert to experienced options such as Chidozie Awaziem or Troost-Ekong himself.
The teenager’s confidence stems from a stellar 2024–25 campaign in England, where he helped Brentford’s youth side win the U21 Professional Development League and reach the Premier League Cup final. His calmness under pressure on Saturday has added to calls for his inclusion in Nigeria’s long-term defensive core.
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