Super Eagles debutant Tolu Arokodare said for him it was an overwhelming experience playing his first game for Nigeria during the World Cup qualifier against Zimbabwe on March 25, 2025 in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.
Though the Super Eagles did not win the tie they were expected to pick three points and put their World Cup qualification destiny into their own hands, Arokodare said it was a special moment for him. More interestingly, according to the Belgian based player, his father for the first time was watching him play at the top level.
Arokodare was introduced into the game in second half and his big presence in the box was impactful in the buildup to the only goal scored by the Super Eagles in the match, but sadly Zimbabwe Warriors equalised on the dot of 90 minutes.
“It’s what every footballer wants, represent their country. I said I have no words, I was very overwhelmed by the moment,” Arokodare said during a chat on Genk Youtube channel
“I was very happy for my dad because I know it meant a lot to him. I was also happy he could come to watch me play for the first time ever.
“Professionally, he watched me in Nigeria and I almost scored. We didn’t win but I got to train with people that I look up to – people I see on Instagram, social media, Snapchat, watch in the Premier League.
He added that training with the likes of Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, Alex Iwobi, made his debut more interesting.
“I got to train with them, and I saw the mentality. It was different, it was a good experience.”
Many Nigerian fans wondered why Arokodare who leads the Belgian Jupiler Pro League goal chart with 18 goals from 31 matches was not started by coach Eric Chelle. He came in for Samuel Chukweze who did not make so much impact.
