Super Eagles: 2 things Moses Usor can learn from 100-cap Moses Simon

Super Eagles attacker Moses Usor could hardly have asked for a better start to his International career, but the LASK winger already knows that scoring on his debut is only the beginning, Afrik-Foot reports.

The 24-year-old came off the bench to score a superb winner as Nigeria came from behind to defeat Madagascar 2-1 in their opening 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier in Uyo.

Usor’s international debut was made even more memorable by the presence of another Moses. Moses Simon came on during the second half to make his 100th appearance for Nigeria, becoming only the fifth player to reach the milestone for the Super Eagles.

The timing of the two moments was not lost on Usor.

“It’s special to share the name Moses and go through this night with him,” the LASK forward told Footy-Africa.

“I wasn’t nervous, I was hungry. The team needed a moment, and I wanted to be the one to give it to them. I’ve waited for this chance my whole career, so I just told myself: this is your moment, take it

But more revealing was what Usor said about what he wants to take from Simon’s career.

“I want to be like Moses Simon, his consistency, his humility, his commitment to the team over so many seasons,” he said.

Lessons Usor wants to glean from Moses Simon

1. Consistency is what turns a debut into a career

Usor’s first international appearance could hardly have gone better, but the forward understands that the goal means little if it remains an isolated moment.

“One goal doesn’t make a career,” he said.

That is where Simon’s career provides a useful reference point. Reaching 100 caps is not achieved through one outstanding performance. It requires repeatedly earning selection, remaining available, adapting to different coaches and continuing to contribute over several international cycles.

Simon has now accumulated that longevity, with his 100th appearance coming against Madagascar after first representing Nigeria at senior level more than a decade ago.

For Usor, the challenge is therefore no longer simply getting noticed. He must now reproduce the directness and attacking quality that made his debut so impressive whenever Chelle gives him another opportunity.

The first goal has opened the door. Consistency is what will keep it open.

2. Humility and commitment can sustain his place

Usor also singled out Simon’s humility and commitment, and those qualities could become particularly important as competition for Nigeria’s attacking positions intensifies.

The winger was initially on the bench against Madagascar, with Chelle choosing other options before turning to him in the second half.

Usor responded in the best possible way, scoring the decisive goal only minutes after entering the pitch.

Yet, instead of demanding a starting place after his heroics, his response was to emphasise learning from the senior players and continuing to fight for his shirt.

“I want to stay humble, keep learning from the senior players, and keep fighting for my shirt,” he said.

“I want Nigerians to know I’m here to give everything.”

That attitude mirrors the challenge that awaits him. Nigeria have several established attacking options, while emerging players such as Usor and George Ilenikhena are now making their cases after both scored on debut against Madagascar.

Usor now has a choice to make: allow one memorable night to define his international career, or use it as the starting point for something much bigger.

Simon has just provided him with a very visible example of the second route.

The youngster may share more than a first name with Nigeria’s new centurion, but if Usor can reproduce the consistency, humility and commitment he admires in Simon, his own journey with the Super Eagles could eventually become just as significant.