Arokodare targets Ajax goal-scoring form for Nigeria in AFCON 2027 qualifiers

Tolu Arokodare wants to carry his outstanding scoring form for Ajax into Nigeria’s 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign.

The 25-year-old striker has scored 13 goals and provided four assists in 17 appearances across all competitions for the Eredivisie club this season.

That return is yet to be matched in an international shirt, with Arokodare having scored twice in 12 appearances for the Super Eagles. The former Genk forward says, however, that he has continued to contribute whenever he has been involved with the national team.

Arokodare was speaking to the media in Uyo on Thursday ahead of Nigeria’s Matchday Three qualifier against Tanzania’s Taifa Stars.

“Yes, I would say I am having a very good start at Ajax, but I haven’t scored as much with the Super Eagles. However, it is also fair to say that every time I am with the team, I have done my part, supporting my teammates whether I am playing or not. We also help others improve in training,” he said.

The striker acknowledged that producing the same level of performance for a club and a national team can present different challenges.

“Obviously, the goals haven’t been coming as they have at club level, but I know that playing for your club and playing for your country are different,” Arokodare added.

“I just have to keep working, stay patient and fresh, and remain positive so I can replicate what I do at my club.”

Arokodare is expected to lead Nigeria’s attack when the Super Eagles face Taifa Stars at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Friday.

The fixture will be Nigeria’s third match in the qualifying campaign for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations. His club form has made him one of the key attacking options available to the Super Eagles, despite his comparatively modest international scoring record.

Arokodare’s comments also underline his willingness to contribute beyond goals. He said he had supported his team-mates when not selected to play and had helped others improve during training.

While his return for Ajax has placed him among the club’s leading contributors this season, he remains focused on transferring that confidence to Nigeria as the Super Eagles continue their pursuit of qualification.