Super Eagles: Samson Tijani unearths 2 key secrets about Nigeria’s camp – “How they play”

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Super Eagles midfielder Samson Tijani has expressed his delight at being part of the squad for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Tanzania.

​Tijani is one of the new invitees in Éric Chelle’s squad. Although he was called up for the Unity Cup and featured prominently, this marks his first invitation for a competitive fixture.

​The Podbrezová man captained Nigeria at under-17 level, but he has not featured frequently with the senior team over the years due to instability at club level. This call-up serves largely as a reward for his impressive showings at the Unity Cup in May.

Zimbabwe's Marvelous Nakamba and Super Eagles midfielder Samson Tijani.
Zimbabwe’s Marvelous Nakamba and Super Eagles midfielder Samson Tijani. Copyright: ImagoxToyinxOshodix

​Tijani has been training with the rest of the squad in camp, and in a recent interview, he shared his feelings about earning a call-up for the competitive international fixture between Nigeria and Tanzania.

​”Everyone in Nigeria who plays football wants to play for the Nigerian national team. You know, it is a huge honour. It brings pride to you, your family, and your friends,” Tijani said.

​”Across Nigeria, everyone who knows you will be happy for you. It is something I have looked forward to for a very long time, and now here I am. I am ready to go out there and give my best. I do not look down on myself; that is my motivation. I see myself taking on the challenge.

​”I like to be challenged. The reality is that when you get an opportunity, you must seize it; it is up to you if you fail to take advantage. For me, the challenge is there, and I am ready for it.”

Samson Tijani of Dukla Prague.
Samson Tijani of Dukla Prague. Photo by: ImagoxBranislav Racko

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Tijani Reveals Two Unique Things About Super Eagles Camp

Samson Tijani also opened up on the atmosphere inside the Super Eagles camp, noting that the established regulars had welcomed him warmly.

​He further praised the squad’s chemistry, emphasising that everyone remains completely focused on securing all three points against the Taifa Stars on Friday.

Super Eagles and Olympic Eagles stars. Photo by IMAGO
Super Eagles stars. Photo by IMAGO

​”The guys welcomed the new players warmly and made sure to support everyone. They motivated us all. They are true professionals, and they back you up,” Tijani said.

​”There is great chemistry within the squad, which is fantastic.

​”They play at the very top level, and you can see that in their conduct and in the way they play. That is brilliant to witness.

​”You can learn so much from them. If you stay humble and observant, there is plenty to pick up. For me, I am just here to help in any way possible. If the opportunity comes, I will do what I do best to help the team.

​”As I said earlier, the most important objective is to secure the points. We just have to get the job done. For everyone in this camp, including the officials, the main target is to go out and win the match. That remains the top priority right now.”

​Considering the pedigree and depth of midfield talent available to the Super Eagles, Tijani is unlikely to start against Tanzania or see a lot of minutes, particularly with established players like Wilfred Ndidi, Alex Iwobi, and Tochukwu Nnadi in contention.

As a result, the Podbrezová midfielder will most likely have to settle for an impact role off the bench.

<!-- Author Start -->Kelvin Omachonu<!-- Author End -->

Kelvin Omachonu

Sports Writer

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Kelvin Omachonu is a sports writer covering Nigeria, with 6 years in sports media and a Reuters Digital Journalism certification. A bettor for 7 years, he specialises in football and basketball odds and responsible gambling, and has used operators including Bet9ja, SportyBet, Betano and 1xBet.