Racing Genk striker Tolu Arokodare is relishing the opportunity to represent Nigeria at senior level after earning his first-ever call-up to the Super Eagles, Footynaija.com reports.
The 23-year-old forward, who has been in exceptional form in Belgium, will join the squad for their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches against Rwanda and Zimbabwe.
Arokodare’s invitation is a significant milestone in his career, with new Nigeria head coach Eric Chelle rewarding his outstanding performances in the Jupiler Pro League.
Genk Striker, Tolu Arokodare in the Belgian league.
— POOJA!!! (@PoojaMedia) March 2, 2025
28 Games
16 goals
5 assists
Top scorer in the league.
Naija is blessed with strikers pic.twitter.com/CJkq7bXYIu
The former FC Cologne star continued his fine form at the weekend, finding the net in Genk’s 2-1 victory over Union Saint-Gilloise.
That goal took his tally to 17 in 30 league appearances, making him the top scorer in the Belgian Pro League ahead of Adriano Bertaccini (Sint-Truidense) and Kasper Dolberg (Anderlecht), who both have 14 goals each.
| Tolu Arokodare, helemaal op z’n eentje. ️ #WESGNK pic.twitter.com/UkiuJXMiHH
— DAZN België (@DAZN_BENL) January 27, 2025
Speaking about his maiden call-up, an emotional Arokodare expressed his excitement and gratitude, confirming he would depart for Nigeria’s training camp in Kigali on Sunday.
“I still don’t know how to feel. It’s a mix of only great feelings for me and my family. I can’t wait to put on that shirt. Tomorrow (Sunday) I’m leaving,” Arokodare told Belgian outlet Voetbalnieuws on Saturday night.
The towering forward now faces stiff competition in the Super Eagles attack, with Napoli’s Victor Osimhen, Bayer Leverkusen’s Victor Boniface, and Atalanta’s Ademola Lookman all vying for starting roles. However, his impressive club form and physical presence could make him a valuable asset for Nigeria as they push for a strong start in their World Cup qualifying campaign.