Nigeria will be counting on late call-up Chisom Chikatara aka ‘Kolanut boy’ to get the goals that will sink visiting Burkina Faso in today’s CHAN qualifier in Port Harcourt.
Abia Warriors star Chikatara has scored four goals in two test matches to further underline his red-hot form in front of goal this season.
The skillful forward has also netted 14 goals in the league this season.
“I want to continue the good work I have been doing since I joined the training camp,” said Chikatara as he looks forward to his international debut.
‘Kolanut boy’ was called up to the Eagles training camp because Wikki Tourists striker Godwin Obaje opted to attend trials overseas.
Eagles assistant coach Salisu Yusuf, who will call the shots from the sidelines today in the absence of ailing Sunday Oliseh, said the Abia Warriors star has proved an inspired call-up.
“Chikatara has so far justified his high rating with his goals and overall performance in training camp. He has scored four goals in two test matches and ought to have scored even more goals but his composure failed him when it mattered most,” remarked Yusuf.
The goals of the 20-year-old forward first propelled Abia Warriors to the Nigeria top-flight league two seasons ago. And in his debut season in the premier league, he fired double-digit number of goals to earn him a trial in Switzerland.
A top Abia Warriors official disclosed the player’s move to Europe eventually fell through because he was offered a poor contract.