Arokodare opens up on Eagles debut

Super Eagles’ new striker, Tolu Arokodare, has revealed why he became emotional after making his debut in Nigeria’s 2-0 victory over Rwanda in Friday’s 2026 World Cup qualifier in Kigali.

Arokodare, who earned his first call-up under new head coach Eric Chelle, came on as a substitute for two-goal hero Victor Osimhen in the closing stages of the match.

The 24-year-old Genk frontman was spotted in tears in the dressing room following the game, sparking curiosity about what triggered such an emotional response from the debutant.

Arokodare has now explained that his tears flowed after embracing his teammate and idol, Victor Osimhen, whom he credits as having a significant influence on his career.

“What a lot of people don’t know is I started crying when I hugged (Victor) Osimhen because I hugged him and said ‘thank you,’” Arokodare revealed per a video by OJB Sports.

“I said in an interview he’s played a huge role in my career and life.”

The victory over Rwanda lifted Nigeria to fourth place in Group C with six points from five matches, trailing South Africa (10 points), Benin (eight points), and Rwanda (seven points).

With the Zimbabwe match representing another must-win fixture for the Super Eagles, Arokodare will be keen to help the Eagles’ chances of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup, and hopefully get his first national team goal.

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