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Tag: Super Eagles

  • FULL LIST: 10 Super Eagles players who switched national allegiance from England to Nigeria

    FULL LIST: 10 Super Eagles players who switched national allegiance from England to Nigeria

    1. Alex Iwobi

    Born in Lagos but raised in England, Alex Iwobi played for England at the U16, U17, and U18 levels before choosing to represent Nigeria. He made his debut for the Super Eagles in 2015 in a friendly against DR Congo. Iwobi has since featured in major tournaments, including the 2018 FIFA World Cup and the 2019 and 2023 Africa Cup of Nations. His decision to play for Nigeria was influenced by his strong family ties — he is the nephew of Nigerian football legend, Jay-Jay Okocha.

    2. Ola Aina

    Ola Aina was born in London and came through Chelsea’s youth system. He represented England from U16 up to U20 level before making a nationality switch in 2017. Aina made his Super Eagles debut in a 2018 World Cup qualifier against Zambia. He has become a mainstay in the Nigerian defence, playing in both the 2019 and 2023 AFCON tournaments. His consistent performances have earned him praise as one of Nigeria’s most dependable fullbacks.

    3. Joe Aribo

    Joe Aribo was born in London and developed in the English football system. Although he was never capped officially by any England youth team, he trained with the England C team. He made his debut for Nigeria in 2019 in a friendly against Ukraine, where he scored on his debut. Aribo has gone on to feature prominently for the Super Eagles, including during the 2021 AFCON and the 2022 World Cup qualifiers, bringing midfield creativity and versatility.

    4. William Troost-Ekong

    Troost-Ekong was born in the Netherlands to a Dutch mother and Nigerian father but grew up in England. He played for England U16 before deciding to switch allegiance to Nigeria in 2015. He made his debut for the Super Eagles in a 2017 AFCON qualifier against Chad. A commanding centre-back, he played at the 2018 World Cup and the 2019 and 2023 AFCONs, even captaining the team at times. His leadership has been crucial in the heart of Nigeria’s defence.

    5. Leon Balogun

    Though born and raised in Germany, Leon Balogun was eligible for England and Nigeria. While he never represented England officially, he qualifies for this list as a player developed within European systems with a choice to represent multiple countries. He chose Nigeria and made his debut in 2014. Balogun has since been part of several major tournaments, including the 2018 World Cup and the 2019 and 2023 AFCONs, forming a solid partnership with Troost-Ekong.

    6. Josh Maja

    Josh Maja was born in London and played for England U16 before opting to play for Nigeria. He made his debut in 2019 during a friendly against Ukraine. Although his appearances have been limited so far, Maja remains on the radar of the national team and is considered a future attacking option. His switch was seen as a commitment to Nigeria despite the lure of potential future opportunities with England.

    7. Shola Ameobi

    Ameobi was born in Nigeria but moved to England at a young age. He played for England U21 and was long considered for the senior team before switching allegiance in 2012. He made his debut for Nigeria in a friendly against Venezuela and was part of the squad that went to the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil. Though his international career came late, he brought experience and composure to the Super Eagles frontline during his stint.

    Read Also: FULL LIST: 23 players who changed national allegiance to play for Super Eagles

    8. Carl Ikeme

    Ikeme was born in England and represented the country at the U20 level. In 2015, he committed to Nigeria and made his debut in a 2017 AFCON qualifier against Tanzania, where he impressed with a clean sheet. Ikeme quickly became Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper and was instrumental during the early stages of the 2018 World Cup qualifiers. Unfortunately, his career was cut short due to a leukaemia diagnosis, but his impact was deeply felt, and he remains highly respected.

    9. Sone Aluko

    Born in London, Aluko played for England from U16 through to U19. In 2009, he decided to represent Nigeria and made his senior debut in a friendly against Ireland. Aluko featured in qualifiers and friendlies between 2009 and 2015, offering pace and attacking flair. Though he wasn’t part of Nigeria’s major tournament squads, his contributions helped during key transitional periods for the team.

    10. Victor Moses

    Victor Moses was born in Nigeria but moved to England as a child. He represented England extensively at the youth level from U16 to U21. In 2011, he switched allegiance and made his debut for Nigeria in early 2012. Moses was instrumental in Nigeria’s 2013 AFCON triumph and played at the 2014 and 2018 World Cups. He later retired from international football but briefly returned before finally stepping aside. His impact remains one of the most significant among dual-nationality players.

  • CHAN 2024 Build up: Super Eagles B Secure victory over Ikorodu City

    CHAN 2024 Build up: Super Eagles B Secure victory over Ikorodu City

    The home-based Super Eagles B side continued their impressive build-up to the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) with a convincing 3-1 win over Nigeria Premier Football League side Ikorodu City in a friendly match played yesterday at the Remo Stars Stadium, Ikenne.

    The game kicked off with high tempo from both sides, but it was the topflight side that scored first in the ninth minute but Eagles equalised through Junior Nduka, who smashed home a well-placed free-kick in  Ikorodu City’s net.

    In the second half, the Super Eagles B regained control and asserted their dominance. Midfielder Anthony Ijoma, one of the standout performers, restored Nigeria’s lead in the 66th minute with a composed finish from inside the box. Striker Sikiru Alimi put the result beyond doubt with a clinical strike in the 78th minute, sealing the third win in as many games for the CHAN-bound side.

    Read Also: Oshoala, Plumptre return as NFF list 24 Super Falcons for WAFCON

    The friendly against Ikorodu City marks the third straight win for  the coach Eric Sekou Chelle’s men as they continue preparations for CHAN 2024, set to take place across Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda.

    Nigeria’s Super Eagles B have been drawn into Group D, arguably one of the most challenging in the tournament:

    With the final squad selection imminent, this victory not only boosts team morale but also presents a final chance for fringe players to impress before the team list is finalized.

    The final 23-man squad for CHAN2024 will be announced soon, as coach Chelle looks to trim his provisional list ahead of the team’s departure for East Africa.

  • Ideye doubts Super Eagles’ chance for  World Cup 26 ticket

    Ideye doubts Super Eagles’ chance for  World Cup 26 ticket

    Former Nigeria international Brown Ideye believes only  a miracle can make the  Super Eagles qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

    The Super Eagles failed to qualify for the Qatar 2022 World Cup after their defeat by Ghana in the playoff and are now  on the cusp of another  Mundial shutout except the team’s fortune change dramatically.

    Speaking in a recent interview with Official54x, the AFCON 2013-winning striker expressed frustration with Nigeria’s faltering campaign, adding that the team’s sluggish start and failure to take responsibility may cost them a second consecutive World Cup appearance.

    “With the present form, I don’t think we are going to qualify unless something changes,” Ideye said. “We always forget to do our job at the right time. Then we expect someone else to clean up the mess.”

    Read Also: Lookman inches closer to Inter from Atalanta

    The Super Eagles currently sit fourth in their qualifying group with seven points from six matches, and trail behind Rwanda, South Africa, and Benin.

    Only the top team in the group earns an automatic spot at the World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

    Ideye, who played a key role in Nigeria’s 2013 Africa Cup of Nations triumph under Stephen Keshi, never featured at a World Cup during his career.

    His comments reflect widespread concerns about the current squad’s form, mentality, and connection with fans.

    He continued: “Why do we keep on doing it the hard way? A country of over 200 million people, yet we can’t win simple games. People close their shops, leave their jobs just to support the national team but right now, many Nigerians have lost faith in them.”

    The former West Brom and Dynamo Kyiv striker added that even if the Super Eagles manage to scrape through qualification, it would take an unprecedented superb  run in the tournament to win back fan support.

     “Even if they eventually qualify, people won’t believe in this team unless they go very far—maybe to the semi-finals, which we’ve never reached.”

    Nigeria’s next qualifying matches come in September, with must-win clashes against Rwanda and South Africa.

    Failure to collect maximum points could effectively end their hopes of reaching the global stage.

  • Super Eagles B get Ojodu City test today 

    Super Eagles B get Ojodu City test today 

    Super Eagles B team will face Ojodu City FC in a friendly game this morning as they continue their build up to the 2024 African Nations Championship slated for Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda next month.

    The team pipped Remo Stars 1-0 a few days ago with Anthony Ijoma scoring the only goal.

    A source in the camp, Samuel Areo, confirmed the arrival of three new players: Akanni Qudus, Jabbar Malik and Alex Oyowah who have joined the training sessions.

    Read Also: Transfers: Ighalo wants Osimhen to cash-in on Saudi financial windfall

    He also wrote that Ikorodu City attacker, Shola Adelani has returned to the fold after a period out.

    The friendly game with Ojodu City will start by 10AM.

    In all, 27 players took part in the evening training yesterday.

  • Ex-Super Eagles winger Allen Waobikeze dies

    Ex-Super Eagles winger Allen Waobikeze dies

    Former Super Eagles gifted left-footed forward, Okwuchukwu ‘Allen’ Waobikeze, has passed away, just days after the death of captain and goalkeeper Peter Rufai.

    Affectionately nicknamed ‘Babaoo’ by fans and teammates, Waobikeze was known for his powerful left foot and exceptional ball control. Though his appearances for the national team were limited due to intense competition, he made a lasting impact on Nigeria’s domestic football scene.

    He featured prominently for clubs such as Sharks FC of Port Harcourt, BCC Lions of Gboko, and Iwuanyanwu Nationale (now Heartland FC), earning admiration for his flair and skill on the pitch.

    His death was confirmed on Monday by his brother, Eli Waobikeze, in a statement on Facebook.

    Read Also: Super Eagles need miracle to qualify for World Cup, says Musa

    “On behalf of the Waobikeze family, I would like to announce the peaceful passing to eternal glory of my brother Allen Okwuchukwu Waobikeze. He transitioned at about 7:34 pm CST.

    “We appreciate everyone who prayed, called, and visited my brother Okwuchukwu Waobikeze. Every funeral arrangement will be posted.

    “Please keep our family in your prayers at this time as we plan to send forth our beloved brother. God bless you all,” he wrote.

  • UPDATED: Super Eagles legend Peter Rufai dies at 61

    UPDATED: Super Eagles legend Peter Rufai dies at 61

    Former Super Eagles goalkeeper Peter Rufai has passed away.

    The 61-year-old died in the early hours of Thursday, July 3, 2025 after battling a long-term illness that had kept him out of the public spotlight for several years.

    The official Super Eagles X page confirmed the incident.

    The post reads: “Forever in our hearts, Dodo Mayana.

    “We mourn the passing of legendary Super Eagles goalkeeper, Peter Rufai, a giant of Nigerian football and a 1994 AFCON champion.

    Read Also: Mbah hosts Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye, appoints him Enugu ambassador

    “Your legacy lives on between the sticks and beyond.

    Rest well, Peter Rufai.”

    Rufai, regarded as one of Nigeria’s greatest goalkeepers, had a remarkable career spanning top clubs like Stationery Stores and Go Ahead Eagles.

    He earned 65 caps for the Super Eagles, representing Nigeria at two FIFA World Cups and playing a pivotal role in the country’s memorable 1994 Africa Cup of Nations triumph.

  • BREAKING : Super Eagles legend Peter Rufai dies at 61

    BREAKING : Super Eagles legend Peter Rufai dies at 61

    Former Super Eagles goalkeeper Peter Rufai is dead.

    The 61-year-old died in the early hours of Thursday, July 3, 2025 following a prolonged illness that had kept him away from the public in recent years.

    Widely celebrated as one of Nigeria’s finest goalkeepers, Rufai enjoyed a distinguished career with clubs such as Stationery Stores and Go Ahead Eagles. 

    Read Also: 2025 WAFCON: Music-mad Babajide targets first silverware with Super Eagles

    He made 65 appearances for the Super Eagles, featuring in two FIFA World Cups and playing a key role in Nigeria’s historic 1994 Africa Cup of Nations victory.

    Though the family is yet to release an official statement, his former teammate Waidi Akanni confirmed the incident. 

    Details shortly…

  • Osayi-Samuel backs Super Eagles’ World Cup qualification

    Osayi-Samuel backs Super Eagles’ World Cup qualification

    Super Eagles defender Bright Osayi-Samuel has expressed confidence in Nigeria’s chances of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in spite of the shaky start to the qualifiers.

    The Super Eagles lie fourth in the six-team Group C on seven points, six points behind leaders South Africa and one point behind Rwanda and the Benin Republic.

    Osayi-Samuel, who stated this while speaking with newsmen on Tuesday in Benin, said the Eagles remain confident and fully aligned with the vision of head coach Eric Chelle.

    “I still think we can qualify. The aim is just to win every single game. We believe in our team.

    “Though it will be difficult, but for us and the team, I think we have a good chance,” he said.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Super Eagles currently face an uphill task in Group C.

    Osayi-Samuel insisted, however, that the right mentality and collective belief could turn things around.

    When asked about the team’s trust in the new head coach, he described Chelle as a fantastic coach, whom he said was at home with his philosophy.

    “For me, the coach is fantastic. The way he wants us to press and run; I think everyone in the team is aligned to his ideas,” he said.

    The Fernabache star also pointed to the team’s recent performance against a strong opponent as evidence of progress.

    “In our last game against Russia, we contained a team that has not lost in six or seven matches. If we keep working together, we have a good chance,” he said. (NAN)

  • FG fulfills promise of house allocations to 94 Super Eagles

    FG fulfills promise of house allocations to 94 Super Eagles

    The Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development has fulfilled the long-standing pledge of houses to the victorious 1994 Super Eagles Team that won the Africa Cup of Nations in Tunisia.

    The Director and Head of Department, Public Building and Housing Development, Pemi Temitope, made this known in a statement by Badamasi Haiba, Director, Press and Public Relations, on Wednesday in Abuja.

    Temitope while symbolically handing over the letter of allocation  to Efan Ekoku, a striker in the then team  on behalf of the Minister of Housing and Urban Development in Abuja, explained that the allocation of the housing units to members of the victorious team was done in various states across Nigeria.

    He said while some members received their houses in their respective states, others collected theirs in Abuja.

    ”The government is committed to ensuring the fulfilment of the pledge and rewarding members of the team for their patriotic service that brought honour to the nation,” he said.

    Responding, Mr Efan Ekoku represened by his niece, Lisa Nwagbogun, commended the Nigerian government for fulfilling her promise to the team.

    Read Also: Mbah hosts Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye, appoints him Enugu ambassador

    “I am deeply grateful to the Federal Government and the Ministry of Housing for fulfilling this long-standing pledge.

    “It is truly heartening to witness such commitment to integrity and follow-through. This gesture not only honors the service but also restores faith in the value of public promises being kept,” he said.

    It would be recalled that former President Muhammadu Buhari, in 2022 approved the allocation of the houses to the members of the team, with a view to fulfilling the pledge made by the then administration in 1994.

    (NAN)

  • Super Eagles stars launch ‘The Culture League’ talk show

    Super Eagles stars launch ‘The Culture League’ talk show

    Nigerian football stars Victor Boniface, Frank Onyeka, and Wilfred Ndidi are set to host a new talk show, “The Culture League,” which promises to uniquely blend the worlds of football, music, fashion, and film.

    This refreshing mix of conversation and entertainment will offer a platform where sports, art, and culture converge, showcasing the creativity and talent of Nigeria’s most exciting voices.

    The Culture League is a weekly series featuring unfiltered conversations between Nigerian footballers and top entertainment icons from music, film, fashion, and beyond.

    Hosted by the charismatic trio of Super Eagles stars, the show offers a refreshing mix of humour, authenticity, and deep insights into the lives of Nigeria’s most influential personalities.

    From viral moments to behind-the-scenes stories, The Culture League captures the energy and diversity shaping modern Nigerian identity. With a focus on all-Nigerian talent, the show celebrates the rich culture, creativity, and impact of Nigerians across industries, highlighting how local creativity has become a global force.

    “The Culture League is more than just a talk show; it’s a reflection of our culture and our generation,” says Esse Akwawa, CEO of Webek Studios. “We wanted to build a space where footballers, artists, and creatives can speak freely, connect across industries, and inspire the next wave of Nigerian talent.”

    Read Also: Ekong tip Super Eagles for 2025 AFCON title, World Cup 26

    Edith Nwekenta, Creative Director at Webek Studios, adds, “The Culture League brings the flair of the locker room and the honesty of the backstage into one space. It’s the kind of show that reflects how people want to engage today — with real people, real stories, and an unapologetically Nigerian point of view.”

    The show will feature a diverse range of guests, including Basketmouth, Bovi, Odumodublvck, Osas Ighodaro, Falz, and VJ Adams, who will engage in candid conversations about their lives, experiences, and perspectives. Discussions will touch on topics such as fame, family, identity, and the intersection of sports and entertainment.

    Produced by Webek Studios in collaboration with Kini Media Group, The Culture League marks a shared commitment to bold, relevant, and globally resonant African content. Premiering on July 11, 2025, this show is set to make a significant impact on Nigeria’s entertainment scene and beyond.