The name Saviour Godwin is not at all new to followers of Nigeria youth football as the 18-year-old, who recently played in two All Africa Games qualifiers for Nigeria Under-23 against Zambia, was part of the all-conquering Golden Eaglets team of 2015.
However, due to his bit part role at the tournament and the fact that he was snubbed by the team during qualifiers for the Africa Youth Championship and the tournament, most people were shocked when he was selected in coach Manu Garba’s 35 man provisional list of players for the World Cup.
Saviour not new to Manu Garba warmed his way into the hearts of the coaches with his above par performances for the under-23 team and with the coach looking for more firepower upfront he was once again given a look in.
The 18-year-old was in direct competition with Alhassan Ibrahim, Saddam Billy Auta and by extension with the duo of Wasiu Jimoh and Christian Pyagbara.
He started his push to be included in the team by initially brushing off one of coach Manu’s favourite squad player in Saddam Auta, but with limited spaces available in the team in attack due to options, he still has a job to do to make the team.
Germany was the place where he finally proved his mettle, scoring in every training section during camp and crowning it up with a strong performance against Hoffeinheim in a friendly game. Ironically his future in the team was tied to his performance in that game and he grabbed it with both hands.
While his strong showing in camp played a big role the honesty from the coaches aided him as they were brave and straight in dropping players they have shown faith in the last three years for Saviour, who now has a chance to make a mark on the global stage.