Injury Stopped My Super Eagles Debut, Zadok Yohanna

Brighton & Hove Albion player Zadok Yohanna has shared that an injury stopped him from playing for Nigeria during the Unity Cup tournament in London. But he eventually made his international debut with the Olympic Eagles.

Yohanna got his first call-up to the Super Eagles squad for the tournament at The Valley. Sadly, he could not join the team because of an injury he picked up at his last club.

He has now started his journey in international football. He made his debut for Nigeria’s U23 team in their 2-0 loss to DR Congo in the first leg of their 2027 U-23 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match in Lubumbashi on Friday.

Even though the result was disappointing, Yohanna spoke to the media team in camp. He said representing Nigeria was a special moment for him and his family. He also thanked God for finally getting his chance to play internationally.

“First of all, I give God the glory. It was a really proud moment for me and my family,” Yohanna said.

“I was really happy for the invitation despite that this is not the first time.”

Yohanna also explained that he missed the Super Eagles for the Unity Cup because of his injury. He noted that he had been considered for the senior national team before.

“I have been invited before but due to some problem of injury, I didn’t participate,” he added.

Looking Ahead

Despite the first-leg loss, Yohanna is hopeful about Nigeria's chances against DR Congo. He believes they can turn around the score and move forward in the race to qualify for the 2027 U-23 AFCON in Egypt.

The Olympic Eagles lost 2-0 in Lubumbashi, making the next match tough. They will play the return leg on Tuesday at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne.

Yohanna believes the talent in the Nigerian team can lead to a comeback.

“Of course, with the quality players we have, I am really sure that they would win,” he concluded.

Unfortunately, Yohanna is now expected to miss the return match against DR Congo in Nigeria due to another injury. This could be another setback for the Olympic Eagles as they fight to keep their hopes alive for qualification.