Football in Nigeria every year throws up new stars who go on to make their international bow for the Super Eagles and the Super Falcons
For the Super Eagles, 2024 was a year to remember, with players like Gabriel Osho, Ibrahim Olawoyin, Benjamin Tanimu, and Sodiq Ismail stepping onto the pitch for their full international debuts.
Meanwhile, the Super Falcons also welcomed new faces, as Josephine Mathias, Mercy Omokwo, and Janet Akekoromowei featured prominently during their two-legged friendly matches.
Looking ahead, anticipation is building for another crop of talent poised to make their mark with the Super Eagles. These players bring different qualities to the team, and their potential debuts could signal a new chapter for Nigerian football.
Akor Adams (Montpellier)
The talent of former Flying Eagles forward Akor Adams is obvious.
This year, injuries have slowed the Montpellier down, but he has been able to add three goals to his tally of 10 in the 2023/24 season.
Known for his physical presence and clinical finishing, Adams’ aerial prowess and knack for poaching goals in tight spaces make him a valuable addition to Nigeria’s attacking options.
With Victor Osimhen leading the line, he could provide the perfect foil or serve as a reliable backup to maintain the team’s offensive momentum.
Tolu Arokodare (Genk)
Standing tall at 6’5”, Tolu Arokodare is currently the hottest striker in Belgium’s top flight league.
He combines strength, agility, and an eye for goal with the ability to hold up play and bring teammates into the game, adding another dimension to any attack.
This season, the former Golden Eaglets striker has notched 13 goals and six assists in the Jupiler Pro League – the highest goals contribution in the league.
Arokodare’s knack for scoring with both feet and his head makes him a versatile attacking threat for the Super Eagles at set pieces.
Edna Imade (Granada)
Edna Imade has been in scintillating form this season, scoring nine league goals to become the second-top scorer in the Spanish top flight, trailing only Barcelona’s Ewa Pajor.
Imade has openly expressed her desire to represent Nigeria on the international stage.
At 24 years old, she could serve as an excellent backup or even a long-term replacement for Asisat Oshoala, who has shouldered much of the team’s attacking responsibilities in recent years.
Capping off her impressive performances, Imade won the December Liga de Fútbol Femenino Player of the Month award in the First Division, further cementing her status as one of the league’s standout players.
Gift Orban (Hoffenheim)
Despite tussles between Nigeria and Togo over his international allegiance, Gift Orban has ultimately chosen to represent Nigeria.
He was on the verge of making his Super Eagles debut in an Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against São Tomé and Príncipe in September 2023, but administrative lapses dashed that opportunity.
Since bursting onto the scene with a flurry of goals for Belgian side KAA Gent, Orban’s career has seen its share of highs and lows.
Now, Orban is looking to reignite his career following a move to Bundesliga side Hoffenheim.
His dynamic, all-action style of play makes him a unique asset for the Super Eagles, as there is currently no striker in the setup who offers his blend of physicality, pace, and finishing prowess.
Igoh Ogbu (Slavia Prague)
While attackers often grab the headlines, Igoh Ogbu’s rise as a dependable defender deserves equal attention.
The Slavia Prague centre-back has impressed with his composure, aerial dominance, and ability to read the game.
Ogbu’s performances in the Czech League and the Europa League have solidified his reputation as a reliable and commanding presence at the back.
With the Super Eagles seeking to build a solid defensive foundation, Ogbu’s debut could be a game-changer.
He has been named in two stand-by Super Eagles squads, but never made the full squad.
