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Isaac James breaks down in tears after maiden Super Eagles call-up
Newly invited Super Eagles defender Isaac James has revealed that he broke down in tears after receiving his first-ever invitation to the Nigerian national team, describing the moment as the fulfilment of a lifelong dream.
The 22-year-old Alverca fullback is one of three new faces named by head coach Eric Chelle for Nigeria’s 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau.
He joins Al Ittihad forward George Ilenikhena and LASK attacker Moses Usor as the newcomers to the squad.
Speaking in an interview shared on the official Super Eagles X page, James admitted that the call-up came earlier than he expected, despite enjoying a strong season with Alverca.
“I was doing good during the season, but I didn’t expect to get a call-up immediately. I know it’s my dream to be here, but when the coach called me I was so surprised because I didn’t expect it to be so soon. But I’m really happy to be here.”
For James, however, the moment was more than just a football achievement. He revealed that the significance of joining the national team overwhelmed him emotionally.
“For me personally, I actually cried because I’ve been dreaming of playing in the national team. We have good players here and to be amongst them, I’m really happy.”
His achievement has also been celebrated at club level, with James revealing that Alverca were particularly proud to see him earn his first Nigeria call-up.
“My club also was so happy because I think I’m the first Nigerian guy there to go to the national team. Everyone was so happy, I got a lot of calls.”
James’ rise to the Super Eagles has been built on steady progress across Europe. He left Nigerian side Garden City Panthers FC in July 2022 for Lorient’s reserve team after impressing during a trial.
He eventually made his professional and Ligue 2 debut in August 2024, featuring in Lorient’s 2-0 victory over Grenoble.
Although his opportunities were limited, James played his part as Lorient won the 2024/25 Ligue 2 title and secured promotion to Ligue 1.
He then switched to Portugal, joining Alverca in July 2025.
James made 19 appearances in his first season, providing two assists, and has already matched that assist tally this campaign, registering two assists in seven appearances.
Now, his rapid rise has taken another significant step, with the young defender getting his first opportunity to wear the green and white of Nigeria.