Special Report

Eagles camp update: I feel like a winner already, says Tolu Arokodare

Belgium-based Tolu Arokodare has expressed delight over his first call up to the senior national team of Nigeria, the Super Eagles.
Arokodare always believed his time to wear the colours of Nigeria would come.
After lighting up the Belgian Jupiler Pro League with his goal-scoring exploits, the striker’s confidence in a Super Eagles call-up never wavered.
When the official announcement arrived, he felt a mix of surprise and validation—a moment he had envisioned finally unfolding.
The Genk forward earned his maiden Super Eagles invitation after making the 39-man provisional squad for Nigeria’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe.
His form — leading the Belgian league with 17 goals — made him a standout contender.
Eventually, Arokodare secured his spot in the final 23-man squad and was among the first players to arrive at the team’s camp in Kigali, Rwanda.

Arokodare

Reflecting on the milestone, the 24-year-old admitted he initially felt honored but surprised. Speaking to NFF TV, he shared,
“I knew it was coming because I was doing pretty well and I was hoping that it will come and it did come. 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.”
For Arokodare, wearing the green and white jersey is more than just an achievement—it’s a childhood dream fulfilled.
“As a kid, I watched our country’s legends, and now being in this position means everything to me. Being in the final 23, I just felt really blessed and very grateful it means a lot,” he said, expressing his gratitude for the opportunity.”
Arokodare will be praying to earn his first cap in this FIFA window with the match against Rwanda in Kigali and the one against Zimbabwe in Uyo.

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