The Nigeria Super Eagles recently announced their 23 man squad for their crucial World Cup Qualifier fixtures against South Africa and Benin in June.

One of the surprises of the squad was the call up for the Remo Stars Footballer Ismaila Sodiq. The defender has been rewarded for his excellent performances in the Nigerian Professional Football League.

The 23 for WCQ vs South Africa and Benin in June #soarsupereagles pic.twitter.com/nW2NCZGDfU

— 🇳🇬 Super Eagles (@NGSuperEagles) May 25, 2024

The call up was well received by the fans and the media alike, who’ve been craving for more representation from the local league in the National Team.

AFCON Winner, Emmanuel Emenike also praised the selection by saying,

“It’s fantastic to see a player from Remo Stars called up to the national team.

We have a population of nearly 200 million. We have the same population as Brazil. and we have a lot of local talent that is hungry and wants to prove themselves on the highest stage. Yes we need to do more to catch up in terms of developing our league and so on, however this is a very good sign for International football and for our national team. I think we could potentially be the best breeding ground for elite level football in the world.”

Emenike also left a message of support and appreciation for the new coach Finidi George and his team, ahead of their two must win games and wished them the best of luck for the new era. He said,

“I think the manager has done very well, especially with this selection. It is good to see a Nigerian leading Nigeria and I hope for continuity in the National Team going forward.

We are all excited to see how the new Nigerian national team journey goes because we have a great football team. We have a great national team. They can do very well on any stage or in any competition they take part in. We are capable of winning any competition at any level. I believe in us. We are proud of our country and the future is bright.”

Emenike certainly has high hopes for the future of the Super Eagles. They will play the first of their two upcoming qualifiers on June 7, against South Africa.

They will be forced to play without Victor Osimhen though, who is set to miss the game due to injury.