National Teams
Tolu Arokodare grateful to Eric Chelle for Super Eagles debut
By Monsurah Olatunji
Genk forward, Tolu Arokodare, has expressed heartfelt gratitude to Super Eagles head coach, Eric Chelle, for giving him the opportunity to make his long-awaited debut for Nigeria.
Arokodare made his debut as a late substitute in Nigeria’s 2-0 victory over Rwanda on Friday, marking a significant milestone in his international career.
The win was crucial for the Super Eagles, securing their first three points in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
As the Super Eagles gear up for their next World Cup qualifier against Zimbabwe on Tuesday at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, Arokodare, 24, is hopeful for more playing time to further showcase his talent.
In an interview with OJB Sport TV, the striker reflected on the impact of coach Chelle on the team’s mentality and playing style.
“It feels amazing,” Arokodare said. “The coach is the coach; he knows how he wants to play, and I think everybody could see it in the intensity, the way we press, the way we play, and the calmness and attitude. That’s the impact of the coach.”
Arokodare also expressed deep gratitude to Chelle for giving him his first call-up and debut appearance for the national team.
“I am really grateful to him for giving me the opportunity to be part of this team and for my debut,” he added.
“I also said thank you to him, and he said hi to my parents. Aside from being a coach, he is a very nice guy, and he has a special relationship with the players.”
As Chelle’s Super Eagles continue their campaign to qualify for the 2026 World Cup in the USA, Arokodare and his teammates will be hoping to secure back-to-back victories, starting with their crucial match against Zimbabwe.
