Super Eagles striker Tolu Arokodare has admitted he is still struggling with his fitness despite scoring for Ajax, raising concerns ahead of Nigeria’s upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, Footynaija.com reports.
The 25-year-old came off the bench during Ajax’s 2-2 draw against Excelsior on Saturday, September 19, finding the net just two minutes after his introduction.
Arokodare replaced Kasper Dolberg in the 62nd minute, with Ajax trailing 2-1 before the Nigerian restored parity in the 64th minute following a pass from Oscar Gloukh.
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However, despite making an immediate impact, the forward revealed that he was still feeling the effects of the illness that had ruled him out of Ajax’s previous fixture.
“You could see after five or six minutes that I was hunched over because I was tired. I needed this match to realise that I am not yet 100 percent fit. I still feel weak,” Arokodare said, as reported by AjaxLife.
The former Wolverhampton Wanderers striker also explained why he was unable to start the encounter, despite his impressive goalscoring form since joining Ajax on loan.
“I haven’t recovered as much as I thought. I wanted to start, but I don’t think I could have. We had a tactical training session in the morning and my legs were weak. I was dead after five or six minutes into the match.”
Arokodare’s admission comes at a crucial time for Nigeria, with head coach Eric Chelle preparing his squad for two AFCON 2027 qualifying fixtures.
The Super Eagles will host Madagascar in Uyo on Friday, September 25, before travelling to face Guinea-Bissau four days later.
With Victor Osimhen sidelined by an adductor injury, Arokodare could face increased responsibility in Nigeria’s attack, alongside Taiwo Awoniyi and Akor Adams.
The Ajax forward has scored six goals and provided two assists in nine appearances across all competitions this season, making his fitness an important consideration ahead of the international window.
“I am happy that I was able to come on, though. Hopefully, I will recover fully during the international break,” Arokodare added.
The Super Eagles will hope the striker can regain full fitness as Chelle prepares his team for two important qualifying matches.
