In an exciting development for Nigerian football, four players from the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) have been selected to represent the Super Eagles in their upcoming African Nations Cup qualifier against Sierra Leone.
Coach Jose Peseiro has included Chidiebube Duru and Victor Sochima from Rivers United, Olorunleke Ojo from Enyimba FC, and Divine Nwachukwu from Bendel Insurance in his 23-man squad for the crucial match scheduled to take place on June 18.
🇳🇬 🦅 The Super Eagles call up list for the AFCON Qualifier vs Sierra Leone on 18th June
Uzoho, Moffi, Orban all miss out as Rivers United duo Victor Sochima and Ebube Duru and Bendel insurance Divine Nwachukwu make it in. pic.twitter.com/Zw3VmhM7jp
— Football Fans Tribe 🇳🇬 ⚽ (@FansTribeHQ) June 9, 2023
Chidiebube Duru and Victor Sochima have been vital contributors to the success of Rivers United in recent times. Their inclusion in the Super Eagles squad is well-deserved recognition for their consistent performances and dedication to their craft. Olorunleke Ojo, representing Enyimba FC, has showcased his skills between the posts, earning him a spot in the national team. Divine Nwachukwu's commendable displays for Bendel Insurance have also earned him a call-up, adding to the growing list of NPFL talents making their mark.
Divine Nwachukwu
Divine Nwachukwu has been making waves in the Nigerian Professional Football League (NPFL) and has rightfully earned his place in the Super Eagles squad. The talented midfielder has been a standout player at the NPFL Playoffs, impressing with his performances in the decisive mini-league. His contributions have been crucial to Bendel Insurance's success, with three goals in four matches at the Super 6 tournament.
The journey of Bendel Insurance this season has been impressive.
* Unbeaten run of 21 NPFL games.
* 5 Cup games unbeaten.
* 26-match unbeaten run in all competitions.
📷 Divine Nwachukwu has been the most impressive & consistent player, he should start against Sierra Leone. pic.twitter.com/zaUvM264XU
— Adepoju Tobi Samuel 🇳🇬 (@OgaNlaMedia) June 9, 2023
Victor Sochima
Victor Sochima, the goalkeeper for Rivers United, has received his maiden call-up to the Super Eagles squad. He previously featured in the team's match against the Djurtus of Guinea-Bissau, and his impressive performances have earned him another opportunity to represent his country. Sochima expressed his delight at being named in the squad, considering it a reward for his hard work.
He said : “This is a big motivation for me to continue doing well for my team. It is good for other players too. “I’m happy for the other players that were selected from the Nigeria Premier League.”
Ojo Olorunleke
Ojo Olorunleke, a former goalkeeper for Akwa United, expressed his honor and excitement upon receiving the invitation to join the Super Eagles squad. He stated that it is a significant moment for him, as hard work has paid off with this recognition.
He expressed : “It’s good that we players in the Nigeria Premier League are now getting the recognition we deserved. I want to be a regular in the national team. I am delighted with this invitation but it is a challenge to keep working hard. “
Olorunleke hopes that their collective efforts will result in victory over Sierra Leone and qualification for the African Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Chidiebube Duru
Chidiebube Duru, a talented defender, is thrilled to be back in the Super Eagles and is determined to make his presence count this time around. He expresses his excitement and gratitude for the opportunity to represent the country, acknowledging the importance of determination and prayer in achieving success. Duru is grateful for the chance to be part of the 23-man squad and is eager to contribute to the team's success. He said : “It all comes down to determination and prayers, so, I am super excited and happy that I always want hope for this kind of opportunity to represent the country.”
The inclusion of these four NPFL players in the Super Eagles squad is a significant achievement for Nigerian football. Their individual stories of hard work, dedication, and perseverance are a source of inspiration for other players in the league. It showcases the potential within the Nigerian domestic league and emphasizes the importance of recognizing and nurturing local talent.
Nigeria currently leads Group A with nine points from four matches in the Nations Cup qualifiers. Following closely behind is Guinea Bissau with seven points. Sierra Leone and Sao Tome and Principe complete the group with five and one point, respectively. The upcoming clash against Sierra Leone holds significant importance for the Super Eagles as they aim to maintain their position at the top of the group and secure qualification for the prestigious tournament.
Super Eagles in training from the stands. pic.twitter.com/SYcZECHPBG
— POOJA!!! (@PoojaMedia) June 14, 2023
It is worth noting that the match will be held at the Samuel Kanyon Doe Stadium in Liberia, as Sierra Leone currently lacks a CAF-approved stadium. This presents a unique opportunity for the Nigerian players to demonstrate their adaptability and resilience in a different setting, further enhancing their versatility and overall development.
This article was most recently revised and updated 1 year ago
