Nigerian-born defender Gabriel Osho is set to make his debut for the Super Eagles, as he prepares to face the Benin Republic and Rwanda in the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
Osho, 26, has been named to the 23-man squad for the decisive matches, and his eagerness to represent Nigeria is evident in his prompt arrival at the national team camp.
A journey that began earlier this year, when Osho was initially selected to join the Eagles under the guidance of former coach Finidi George, was stalled due to injury. He’s now ready to seize the opportunity and make a mark.
Osho faces stiff competition for a starting spot, pitted against experienced players like Calvin Bassey and William Troost-Ekong, as well as newcomer Victor Collins, whose rising profile adds to the challenge.
In reflecting on his journey, Osho expressed gratitude for the chance to join the team, saying, “I’m incredibly grateful to God that the moment has finally come for me to join the team. I will put in my utmost effort, as that is what the fans expect from every single player here.”
Osho believes that hard work will ultimately decide who makes the team, saying, “We all have proven our worth to be called up, but it’ll come down to our work ethic. I want to work hard and give everything I can for this shirt.”
Osho is also impressed by the talent within the Nigerian squad, acknowledging that “when you look at the forwards, the names of the players here are impressive… This country is overflowing with skilled players, so securing a spot on the national team is fiercely competitive.”
The Super Eagles will face the Benin Republic on Thursday at 8 p.m. at the Felix Houphouet Boigny Stadium in Abidjan, and then take on Rwanda four days later at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo.
Nigeria currently tops Group D with 10 points, and a single point from either match will guarantee them a place in the AFCON tournament set to take place in Morocco next year.
