Nigeria centre-back William Troost-Ekong is delighted at the prospect of representing the country at the 2016 Olympics Games in Rio, with the defender admitting it is a dream come true.
The 22-year-old was selected as part of coach Samson Siasia's 18-man party to Rio, and he believes the success of the Kanu Nwankwo-led side of 1996 will motivate the current crop of players in their quest for gold.
"I'm very honoured to play in the Olympic team. It's a dream for every player to represent your country at a big tournament," Troost-Ekong told Goal.
"The team of 96 has shown us the way and only gives us more motivation to believe we can do well too."
The team finally departed for Manaus from Atlanta after a number of flight delays due to unpaid bills and the apparent small size of the plane. Troost-Ekong, who flew to Manaus from his club base in Norway after receiving special permission by Siasia, however says the team are solely focussed on the task at hand.
"The mood is good, despite the speed bumps in our road it is a close group and we are focused on the tournament," he said
The Haugesund captain also praised Team Nigeria and Dream Team captain John Mikel Obi, saying the Chelsea midfielder's presence is an advantage for the squad.
"Mikel is one of the best players to play for Nigeria and a natural leader so it is great to have a player of his stature in our team on and off the pitch.
"Our biggest strength is our togetherness in the team and the perseverance. We are hungry to make our nation proud."
