Newly invited Super Eagles defender Igho Ogbu has disclosed he declined an opportunity to represent Norway, prioritizing his dream of playing for Nigeria in line with his late father’s wishes. The 25-year-old, now with Czech side Slavia Prague, was named in head coach Eric Chelle’s 23-man squad for Nigeria’s critical 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe.
Ogbu, part of Nigeria’s 2019 Flying Eagles squad, moved to Norway in 2018 and spent five seasons across four clubs before his €2.5 million transfer to Slavia Prague in January 2023. During his final season with Norwegian club Lillestrøm, he received an offer to represent Norway internationally but opted to wait for a chance with Nigeria.
“There was a chance to play for Norway in my last season with Lillestrøm,” Ogbu told reporters in an interview. But I always knew I’d get my opportunity with the Super Eagles. My father, before his passing, wanted this for me, and I’m honored to fulfill that dream.”
The defender joined Nigeria’s camp in Kigali on Monday, fresh from scoring his second league goal of the season in Slavia Prague’s 3-0 win over FK Jablonec. His coach, Jindřich Trpišovský, lauded Ogbu’s defensive prowess and surprising offensive contributions.
“Igho consistently neutralizes opponents’ top attackers and dominates duels,” Trpišovský stated. “He’s grown more composed and even scored with his left foot—a first in his career, I believe.”
Ogbu’s call-up comes amid Nigeria’s push to secure a spot in the 2026 World Cup, with matches against Rwanda (June 7) and Zimbabwe (June 11) pivotal to their campaign.
