•Osimhen scores three goals for Gala
Super Eagles Players have turned to social media platforms to post nostalgic images of themselves with their national teams, reflecting on past glories as they showcase impressive form ahead of Nigeria’s vital upcoming World Cup qualifying fixtures against Rwanda and Zimbabwe. PUNCH Sports Extra reports.
Away from the pitch, team captain William Troost-Ekong, along with teammates Ola Aina, Alex Iwobi, and Calvin Bassey, have shared photos in anticipation of the forthcoming matches. These posts reflect their excitement and dedication as they get ready mentally to wear the green and white jerseys once more.
On the pitch, forward Victor Osimhen keeps issuing warnings to Nigeria's adversaries after scoring three goals for Galatasaray in their 4-0 victory over Antalyaspor at the Turkish Super Lig on Saturday.
The athletes' performances and the dissemination of these photos seem to serve as a means for them to reaffirm their connection to their national roots and remind themselves of the pride associated with representing their nation.
This is a visual statement of their willingness to compete internationally for Nigeria.
Ekong, currently playing for Al-Kholood FC in Saudi Arabia, posted nostalgic pictures commemorating Nigeria’s Olympic bronze medal victory in 2016 along with Mikel Obi. He also shared an additional photo of himself dressed in traditional white clothing alongside Calvin Bassey.
Iwobi, who is playing for Fulham FC along with Bassey in England, shared an image featuring Galatasaray forward Victor Osimhen with the caption "My Brother!" He also included two individual photos of himself wearing the green and white colors.
Bassey posted an old photo from his initial time with the team, possibly contemplating his progression within the national side and how he has developed as a athlete over the years. Meanwhile, Aina re-shared a photograph that Bassey had initially published back when they played together at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, which will host their next match at home against Zimbabwe.
These social media posts indicate that the players are psychologically transitioning from their club responsibilities to their international obligations. They will start training camp this coming Sunday, fully aware of the immense expectations placed upon them by millions of Nigerians. The images shared act as inspiration for the players and also provide comfort to supporters, signaling that they grasp the significance of the forthcoming matches.
The Super Eagles plan to take on Group C frontrunners Rwanda in Kigali on Friday, March 21st, followed by a home match against Zimbabwe's Warriors at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo on Tuesday, March 25th.
At present fourth in Group C with only three points after four games, Nigeria must secure back-to-back wins to enhance their prospects of advancing to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
Head Coach Éric Chelle has announced his definitive 23-player roster for the qualifier matches, featuring key athletes such as Stanley Nwabali, Ekong, Bassey, Aina, Iwobi, Wilfried Ndidi, Ademola Lookman, and Osimhen.
The team experienced notable absences as regular players such as Kelechi Iheanacho, Maduka Okoye, Zaidu Sanusi, Frank Onyeka, Chidera Ejuke, and Ahmed Musa were not included. Despite making the preliminary roster, in-form pair Cyriel Dessers and Christian Uche did not make the cut for the final squad either.
Bayer Leverkusen forward Nathan Tella was withdrawn from the squad due to injury, with Gent defender Jordan Torunarigha called up as his replacement.
For the second time, Tella has missed out despite being selected for international duty with the national team. The 25-year-old earned her only cap so far when she played in the match against Zimbabwe on November 19, 2023, which was the first leg of the competition.
His substitute, Torunarigha, similarly boasts just one international appearance, which was earned during a friendly match against Mozambique in October 2023. At the age of 27, this defenseman has made 22 appearances for Gent in Belgium’s top division this campaign, contributing one assist.
As the players keep sharing these emotionally charged visuals, it becomes evident that they are mentally preparing for a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s attempt to make a comeback at the World Cup following their absence from the 2022 tournament in Qatar.
Provided by Syndigate Media Inc. ( Syndigate.info ).