Remo Stars skipper Nduka Junior has opened up on his first-ever Super Eagles call-up, describing it as a completely different level from anything he had experienced before, Footynaija.com reports.
The 21-year-old has led Remo to their first-ever NPFL title, hit over 100 top-flight appearances, and even scored in tense fixtures like the one against Kano Pillars. But nothing quite prepared him for his first-ever Super Eagles call-up under new head coach Eric Chelle.
As one of the standout home-based players selected for the Unity Cup in May, Nduka was among the few debutants who earned their spot after Chelle scouted the NPFL closely.
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Speaking after the camp, Nduka described the experience as “a different ball game entirely.”
For a player used to the NPFL’s intensity, stepping into the national camp alongside foreign-based regulars like Kelechi Iheanacho and Samuel Chukwueze was a new world.
“This time, you’re not just playing with homegrown players—you’re alongside those who play overseas, the big boys, mixed with CHAN players,” Nduka said in quotes revealed by Sports247.ng.
He also soaked up the camaraderie. “It’s a happy family,” he added. “We laughed, talked, and shared experiences. We learned a lot from some of the players and coaches.”
The centre-back also spoke of the quiet moments of learning, especially the encouragement he received from senior internationals and staff. He singled out players like Igho Ogbu, Chukwueze, and Iheanacho for making the camp environment easy to adjust to.
Though Nduka did not get minutes during the Unity Cup—which Nigeria eventually won via penalties against Jamaica—the trip left a big impact on him.
He has returned to Remo Stars with a stronger mindset and clear goals. “It’s an amazing feeling. I’m more confident now and ready to fight for a spot,” he said.
