Super Eagles first-timer Tolu Arokodare revealed in a chat with Super Eagles TV that he “knew it was coming” after receiving his maiden call up to the Nigeria national team ahead of crucial qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe, Footynaija.com reports.
Arokodare has been in scintillating goal-scoring form for Belgian Pro League side Genk this season. He has notched 19 goals and registered 6 assists in 35 appearances for the Belgian top-flight leaders so far.
His impressive displays in Belgium didn’t go unnoticed with the 24-year-old earning his first-ever Super Eagles call up as a reward. He will be part of a 23-man squad aiming to revive Nigeria’s qualification hopes after a shockingly poor start.
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Speaking to Super Eagles TV, Arokodare, who was one of the first players to arrive at the training camp in Kigali, shared his excitement at being involved with the senior national team.
“First I was surprised, I felt very honored to be mentioned amongst the 39 players, it was quite surprising.
“I knew it was coming because I’ve been doing pretty well and I was hoping that it would come and it did come.
“I felt like a winner already that even if I didn’t make the final 23, I had done something, I’ve achieved something, I just feel really blessed and really grateful.
“It means a lot, it’s one of the best things that can happen to a footballer, getting the opportunity to represent your country to play.
“As a kid, you always watch the national legends play and you always wanted to play for your national team. Finally being able to play for my own country, it means a lot to me.”
Will Arokodare’s first cap come against Rwanda?
Beyond receiving his maiden Super Eagles call up, Arokodare will be hoping for a chance to win his first cap for the national team when Nigeria take on Rwanda at the Amahoro Stadium on Friday, March 21.
However, with Victor Osimhen’s current form, the Genk star may have to wait a while for his opportunity. Depending on how the game against the Amavubi pans out, we may or may not get to see Arokodare take to the pitch.
