Super Eagles invitee, Divine Nwachukwu has vowed to reward Jose Peseiro’s faith in him to call him up into the national team for the upcoming AFCON qualifiers game following a blistering season with Bendel Insurance in which he led the newly promoted Edo-based team to a super six play-offs.
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Nwachukwu alongside Sochima Victor, Ojo Olorunleke, and Ebube Duru are the only NPFL stars named in the Portuguese squad for this weekend’s 2023 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying fixture against the Leone Stars of Sierra Leone.
Looking back on the season with Bendel Insurance, the midfielder in an exclusive interview with Sports247.ng admitted that it’s indeed an amazing season.
“Great tournament and I’m glad to be part of it, it’s a gradual process and I’m very happy with my performance and that of the team regardless of the results or the log standings.”
The Edo-based team’s unbeaten end was put to a halt following the 2-1 loss to Rivers United followed by a consecutive 1-0 loss against bitter rivals Remo Stars on the final match-day to keep them winless in the tournament while the latter went on to secure CAF Champions League ticket following the nervy win.
Reacting to his invitation to the National team – “I was so happy when I received the news of my call up, I couldn’t believe it but it’s a good one for me, a reward for all of my efforts, I have the opportunity to train and learn from the best players in the national team, it’s a plus to me.”
“I am going there to play if I get the opportunity, I will give my best to the country and the national team, and make my family proud,” he vowed.
On his future with Bendel Insurance going into the new season – “For next season, it’s still undecided, the future is very bright but I’m hoping for better opportunities.”
The upcoming clash between the Leone Stars and the Super Eagles is scheduled for 18 June at the Samuel Kanyon Doe Sports Stadium in Liberia as the venue choice is due to Sierra Leone’s ongoing suspension from hosting international matches on their home soil.
Sierra Leone is currently placed third in the group and must get a win against Super Eagles to have a realistic chance of reaching the 2023 AFCON slated to hold in Ivory Coast in 2024.
For Nigeria, a point from their remaining two group matches will be enough to secure their place at the next edition of the continent’s prestigious competition.
