I knew I would be part of the Super Eagles team during my time in NPFL – Nwaiwu

Chibuike Nwaiwu has said he always believed he would play for the Super Eagles while he was still playing in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL).

Nwaiwu, who replaced the injured Calvin Bassey, made his debut for the Super Eagles in Friday’s 2-1 win against Iran in an international friendly match in Antalya, Turkey.

The 22-year-old former Heartland and Enyimba defender, who now plays for Trabzonspor, came on for Igoh Ogbu early in the second half in his first appearance and marked him with a win.

Moses Simon opened the scoring in the first half before Akor Adams doubled the lead in the second half.

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Reflecting on his debut, Nwaiwu told the Super Eagles media team: “I think it is a privilege to represent my country because every footballer’s dream is to represent his country. “I am very happy to be here to represent my country and I am happy to make my debut.

“I believe in God and I believe that hard work pays off, from the time I played in the NPFL (Nigeria Premier Football League) I always say that I will wear the national team shirt and I want to represent my country and when I received the text message at my club I was very happy, excited and very happy to be here to wear the shirt.

“I was very excited and because of the excitement I almost missed my flight and when my club posted it, it was a big moment for me.”

On the performance of the Iranian 5e, who will participate in this year’s FIFA World Cup, Nwaiwu added: “Iran is a very good team and most of the time they qualify for the World Cup and we took advantage of our opportunities and did a great job.”

Nwaiwu could make his second appearance for Eric Chelle’s side on Tuesday when he faces Jordan in his second friendly match.

By James Agberebi