In an exclusive interview, Ismaila Sadiq, a rising star from the Nigerian Professional Football League (NPFL) team Remo Stars, shared his experiences and aspirations as a national team player.
Sadiq, one of the few NPFL players to earn a national team call-up, expressed his gratitude for the opportunity.
“It’s a privilege for me to be with senior players. I think I shall be able to learn one or two things from them,” he said.
Despite the unexpected call-up, Sadiq is determined to prove his worth and make Nigeria proud.
The news of his national team invitation was met with jubilation. “Everybody was so happy. They celebrated with me where we are in learning from our game,” Sadiq recalled.
When asked about his experience at the national team level, Sadiq noted a distinct difference from his club experience.
“The way they touch the ball, the way they joke with themselves, I think it’s a different team from Nigeria,” he observed.
Looking ahead, Sadiq is optimistic about the upcoming matches against South Africa and Benin Republic.
“We are not under any pressure because we are going to come victorious in the two games,” he confidently stated.
Sadiq is eager to be part of the starting lineup and is ready to prove himself on the field.
“If they give me a chance to play, I’m going to prove myself. We are going to qualify for the World Cup,” he declared.
Reflecting on the home-based players’ contribution to Nigeria’s 2013 AFCON victory, Sadiq is inspired to make a statement in the national team.
“Sure. We are going to prove ourselves. They give us the chance to play and we will prove ourselves,” he affirmed.
This promising talent’s determination and confidence are sure to make him a player to watch in the upcoming matches.
