Why I rejected Norway to chase Nigerian dream — Super Eagles new boy opens up

Why I rejected Norway to chase Nigerian dream — Super Eagles new boy opens up

Ifeanyi Ufomadu 14:42 - 18.03.2025

New Super Eagles invitee Igho Ogbu has revealed how his father inspired him to follow his dream of playing for Nigeria.

Super Eagles invitee Igho Ogbu is in line to earn his first cap for Nigeria after being called up by head coach Eric Chelle for the upcoming World Cup 2026 qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe.

Ogbu is a modern cental defender, who has been making waves at the heart of defence for Czech giants Slavia Prague.

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In a recent interview, the 25-eyar-old revealed he had the opportunity to represent Norway, but playing for the Super Eagles was always his dream.

Nigeria's latest defender Igoh Ogbu. (Photo Credit: Slavia Prague/X)
Nigeria's latest defender Igoh Ogbu. (Photo Credit: Slavia Prague/X)

Having showcased his skills at the 2019 Africa U-20 Cup of Nations and the FIFA U-20 World Cup with Nigeria, Ogbu relocated to Norway in 2018, where he quickly rose to prominence as one of the best defenders in the league.

The center-back first inked a four-year contract with Rosenborg before settling at Lillestrøm, where his excellent displays earned him a move to Slavia Prague in January 2023.

Looking back on his choice to turn down Norway, Ogbu explained that it stemmed from a heartfelt commitment inspired by his late father’s guidance.

“There was a chance to play for Norway in my last season with Lillestrøm,” he revealed to SCORENigeria.

“But I always knew that I would also get my chance with the Super Eagles.”

That conviction has now paid off, with the 25-year-old defender poised to suit up for Nigeria in the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe.

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