Samson Tijani steps up Super Eagles bid after Podbrezova win

Samson Tijani continued his push for a return to the Nigeria squad as FK Zeleziarne Podbrezova recorded a convincing 4-1 victory away to Michalovce in the Nike Liga.

The 24-year-old midfielder started the match on 24 October but was replaced at half-time. He did not score or provide an assist, although the appearance gave him more valuable playing time as he looks to establish himself at the Slovak club.

Martin Chrien put Podbrezova ahead before Balsa Mrvaljevic took control of the second half with a hat-trick. Jose Lopez scored Michalovce’s only goal.

Tijani joined Podbrezova in September on a season-long loan from Czech club Dukla Prague. The Slovak side also have the option to sign him permanently on a two-year deal.

The move represents another opportunity for Tijani to rebuild his career after a series of spells across Europe. He first attracted significant attention as captain of Nigeria’s Golden Eaglets at the 2019 FIFA U-17 World Cup in Brazil.

His performances at that tournament helped secure a move to Austrian club Red Bull Salzburg in 2020. During his time there, he won the league and domestic cup double in the 2021-22 season and played against Bayern Munich in the UEFA Champions League.

Tijani subsequently spent time with TSV Hartberg and Wolfsberger AC before moving to Norway, where he joined Fredrikstad. He won the Norwegian Cup with the club in 2024.

At international level, Tijani has made three senior appearances for Nigeria. He made his Super Eagles debut against Algeria in November 2020.

The midfielder has not added to that tally, but a consistent run of matches and strong performances in Slovakia could improve his chances of earning another call-up.

Podbrezova’s emphatic win provided a positive result for the club, while Tijani’s involvement offered him another chance to regain rhythm as he seeks to revive his international prospects.