By Korede James
Tolu Arokodare has expressed a feeling of gratitude for being included in the Super Eagles’ final 23-man squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe.
The 24-year-old Belgian Jupiler top scorer (17 goals) is on course for his senior Nigeria debut after making the squad for the two key matches.
He was among the early arrivals — alongside Victor Osimhen, Bruno Onyemaechi, Papa Daniel, Kayode Bankole, Amas Obasogie — to the Super Eagles camp in Kigali, Rwanda.
Speaking in an interview on his maiden call-up, Arokodare told Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) TV: “First, I was surprised. I felt very honoured to be mentioned amongst the 39 players, it was quite surprising.
“I knew it was coming (call-up) because I was doing pretty well and I was hoping that it would come and it did come and I feel like a winner already.
“I already had it at the back of my mind that even if I didn’t get to make the final 23, that I’ve achieved something. Being in the final 23 also I just felt really blessed and very grateful. It means a lot.
“So that’s one of the best things that can happen to a football player, getting the opportunity to represent your country. As a kid you always watch the country’s legends and finally being in that position to play for my country means a lot to me.”
Arokodare will hope to help the Super Eagles get the goals that would help them keep their World Cup qualifiers alive.
After four matches, the AFCON 2023 runners-up have struggled for goals, managing just four as they occupy the fifth position with three points in six-team qualifying Group C.
