Former goalkeeper David Dosu, elder brother of ex-Nigerian international Dosu Joseph, has strongly defended Kayode Bankole’s selection for the Super Eagles squad ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
Addressing critics who question Bankole’s inclusion, Dosu emphasized that the young shot-stopper has earned his place through hard work and perseverance.
Speaking in an interview with Sports247 shortly after head coach Éric Sékou Chelle announced his final 23-man squad, Dosu dismissed doubts about Bankole’s readiness for the national team.
“Many are saying he has no place in the national team, but I am here to tell them it is not a fluke that the new coach picked him,” Dosu said.
“He started with me at Agege Stadium with Pepsi Academy. I trained him myself and tried to take him to different clubs, but they kept saying he was too young. With patience and dedication, he found his place at Remo Stars FC, and since then, he has never looked back.”
Dosu further insisted that the coach made the right decision, stating, “The coach can never be wrong. He sees the players, watches their performances, and makes the best choices for the team. Bankole has worked hard, and he deserves this opportunity.”
Bankole is one of three goalkeepers named in Chelle’s final squad for the upcoming qualifiers. Alongside him in the squad are Stanley Nwabali (Chippa United, South Africa) and Amas Obasogie (Singida Blackstars, Tanzania).
The Super Eagles will face group leaders Rwanda in Kigali on March 21 before taking on Zimbabwe in Uyo on March 25, as they continue their journey toward securing a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
