Nigeria-Eligible Defender 'Ready' to Play for Super Eagles: “I Am Waiting for Coach Eric Chelle”
- Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle’s European tour appears to be paying off, as another defender is prepared to pledge his allegiance to Nigeria
- The Nigeria Football Federation has given the Malian coach support in securing the commitment of foreign-based players willing to make a switch
- The Super Eagles are set to play a series of friendlies between May and June as part of their preparations for the World Cup qualifiers in September
A defender once called up for Nigeria at the junior level is aiming for a place in the Super Eagles squad under coach Eric Chelle.
In the 2026 World Cup qualifier draw against Zimbabwe, the West African giants were exposed defensively and conceded a late goal.
That result has left Nigeria with only one win, plus four draws and one loss, in their qualification group for the tournament next year.
Source: Getty Images
The signal of intent from former Nigeria under-20 invitee Hamdi Akujobi could be a spark for the Super Eagles ahead of international friendlies next month.
According to Soccernet, the Almere City defender believes he can fit into the current squad despite strong competition from the likes of Ola Aina.
The 25-year-old, who has played in the Dutch league for over five years, said the experience had helped shape him into a more complete player.
Akujobi also emphasised that representing the Netherlands was never an option for him and he dreamed of playing for Nigeria. He said via EagleTracker:
"I had an opportunity to play for the Nigeria U20 but could not make the final squad for the 2019 FIFA U20 World Cup. It was painful, but I have moved on.
“From 2019 until now, I have improved myself, and the last three years have been amazing because I have played a lot of matches for Heerenveen and Almere City."
Akujobi stated that with his outings in the Dutch Eredivisie, he could bring that talent to the Nigerian national team if given a chance.
“I am very passionate about the game of football, and I am willing to give my body in playing for the national team and wearing the emblem of Nigeria.”
The right-back has scored six goals in 79 appearances since joining Almere City in 2022 and has been solid defensively, per Transfermarkt.
Source: Getty Images
Agu wants to play for Nigeria
Meanwhile, Werder Bremen left-back Felix Agu reportedly also expressed his desire to play for the Super Eagles.
Speaking about his plans, the 25-year-old described the Super Eagles jersey as one of the world's most prestigious.
The former VfL Osnabruck player spoke highly of his homeland in sport and music, as shared by OmasportsTv:
"I would be open to playing for Nigeria. We have players like Ola Aina, Alex Iwobi, William Troost-Ekong, Ademola Lookman, Victor Osimhen, and it would be a dream come true to see my father smile by representing my roots. That’s the truth."
The addition of either of these stars - or even both - could be important as Nigeria prepares for the final round of qualifiers in September and October this year.
According to FIFA, Nigeria is fourth in their qualifying group on seven points, trailing Rwanda and the Benin Republic (both on eight). South Africa tops the group.
Nigerian players urge Chelle to recall Balogun
Legit.ng also reported that Super Eagles stars are eager to see Leon Balogun return after the draw against Zimbabwe in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
The 36-year-old veteran defender’s performances in the Scottish Premiership have proven that he still has the quality to compete at the highest level.
Balogun has demonstrated his defensive solidity with Rangers, showing composure and fitness that attracted consistent praise from fans and pundits.
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Source: Legit.ng
