‘To be the first’ – Super Eagles debutant speaks after making history at 2026 Unity Cup

Super Eagles striker Owen Oseni has spoken of his pride after achieving a landmark moment in his career by making his senior debut for Nigeria at the 2026 Unity Cup, Afrik-Foot reports.

The Plymouth Argyle forward made his first appearance for the three-time African champions during Nigeria’s 2-0 victory over Zimbabwe in the semi-finals of the tournament on May 26.

The competition was staged at The Valley, the home ground of Charlton Athletic in London, and provided the 23-year-old with an unforgettable introduction to international football.

Oseni was introduced by head coach Eric Chelle in the 77th minute as Nigeria closed out a comfortable win to book a place in the final. The Super Eagles’ goals were scored by another debutant, Femi Azeez, whose brace proved decisive against the Warriors.

However, it proved to be a special night for Oseni. Born in Waterford, the striker became the first Irish-born player to represent Nigeria at senior international level, writing his name into the history books of the Super Eagles.

The forward, who was eligible to play for the Republic of Ireland through birth, Ivory Coast through his mother’s heritage and Nigeria through his father’s roots, chose to commit his international future to the Super Eagles.

Reflecting on the achievement, Oseni shared an emotional message on social media.

“To be the first Irish kid to play for the Super Eagles will be a moment me and my family will cherish forever. What a week with the brothers.”

The milestone was the latest reward for a breakthrough campaign with Plymouth Argyle. During his first full season with the English club, Oseni contributed 10 goals and five assists in 33 appearances, form that convinced Chelle to hand him his maiden invitation.

Bigger Super Eagles opportunities await in Poland and Portugal

Oseni’s international story could take another important step in the coming days after he was retained in Nigeria’s squad for upcoming friendlies against Poland and Portugal.

Fresh from lifting the Unity Cup following a commanding 3-0 victory over Jamaica in the final, the Super Eagles are now preparing for two demanding tests in Europe.

Nigeria will first face Poland at the PGE Narodowy Stadium in Warsaw on June 3 before travelling to Portugal for another high-profile friendly on June 10.

The matches have taken on added importance for Oseni following the absence of four of Nigeria’s biggest attacking stars.

Victor Osimhen, Samuel Chukwueze, Femi Azeez and Ademola Lookman have been ruled out of the June fixtures, creating an opportunity for other forwards to stake their claim for regular places in Chelle’s plans.

With four established attackers unavailable, Oseni’s chances of receiving significant minutes have increased considerably. The former Waterford-born forward could even push for his first start in national colours if he continues to impress in training.

Competition remains strong, with Terem Moffi, Paul Onuachu, and Akor Adams all competing for attacking roles. Nigeria will still travel with an experienced core that includes Alex Iwobi, Calvin Bassey and goalkeeper Maduka Okoye as Chelle continues his rebuilding project.

Having failed to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the Super Eagles are using these friendlies to integrate emerging talents and strengthen the squad ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.