Chibuike Nwaiwu has expressed delight after making his debut for the Nigerian national team in Friday’s 2-1 win over Iran at the Antalya Stadium in Turkey.
The Trabzonspor defender had previously played for the U-23 side, but was called up to the senior side for the first time earlier in the week as a replacement for Calvin Bassey, who was forced to withdraw due to injury.
The 22-year-old was initially left out of the 23-man squad named by head coach Eric Chelle for the games against Iran and Jordan, before he was handed a late maiden call-up.
Nwaiwu came on for his debut in the 57th minute of the clash to replace Igoh Ogbu, as the Super Eagles sealed a 2-1 win over the Asian side.
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Moses Simon opened the scoring in the first half of the clash, before Akor Adams added a second goal seven minutes after the restart to double Nigeria’s lead.
Mehdi Taremi halved the deficit for Iran, who could not muster another goal as Nigeria sealed a 2-1 win over them.
Nwaiwu delighted to make Super Eagles debut
Speaking after the match, Nwaiwu who enjoyed a decent outing for the Nigerian senior side on his debut, was proud to finally represent the senior side after coming on in the second half of the win over Iran.
“It is a privilege for me to represent my country because the dream of all footballers in the world is to represent their country, and I am very happy to make my debut today”, Nwaiwu stated.
“When I got the text in my club, I was very happy and excited, and I’m very happy to be here to wear the shirt. I was very excited, and because of the excitement, I nearly missed my flight. When my club posted it, it was a great moment for me.”
The 22-year-old also hailed Iran’s performance in the clash and was optimistic of a starting berth in Nigeria’s next clash.
“They are a very good side; they qualify for World Cups. We took our chances and did a good job. I believe in God, and I believe hard work pays off. Right from my NPFL days, I always said I would wear the national team shirt; I want to represent my country”, Nwaiwu concluded.
Nigeria will face Jordan in their second match of the mini four-nation tournament on Tuesday, hoping to record another impressive win.
