Tijani excited for new chance with Super Eagles

Dukla Prague midfielder Samson Tijani is looking forward to making a mark with the Super Eagles. Nigeria will play Tanzania in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying matches, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.

The 24-year-old midfielder is ready to take on the challenge under coach Eric Chelle. Injuries have affected his progress since his first senior international match in 2020.

Tijani caught attention during the 2019 FIFA U-17 World Cup in Brazil. He led Nigeria’s Golden Eaglets and scored twice in a 4-2 group-stage win against Hungary.

His strong performances at the youth level got him a call-up to the senior team. He made his Super Eagles debut in a 1-0 friendly loss to Algeria on October 9, 2020.

Injuries then hindered his international career and limited his chances to play more matches. After being away for six years, Tijani returned to the squad in May for the Unity Cup. He played against Zimbabwe and Jamaica.

Since then, he has played three times for the Super Eagles and hopes to make his competitive debut against the Taifa Stars. Despite the challenges, Tijani has not lost hope in his international career. He is ready to seize this new chance under Chelle.

“I’m ready to go and give my best. I like to be challenged, and when you get the opportunity, you have to take it. The challenge is open, and I am ready for it,” he said.

Tijani also spoke about the good vibes in the squad. He hopes to learn from the experienced players while contributing when he can.

“There is great chemistry between the squad, and that is a good one. These guys are at the very top, and you can see it in their behaviour and the way they play. You can learn a lot from them.

“For me, I will be here to help in any way, and if there is a chance, I will do what I do best to help the team,” he added.

With Nigeria facing Tanzania home and away, Tijani believes getting maximum points is crucial. He knows the team needs to focus on winning both matches.

“The most important thing is to get the six points. Home and away, we just have to get it done. Everybody in this camp, including the officials, the main goal is to go into the game and win,” he said.

Tijani’s journey has taken him from Nigeria’s youth teams to Austrian club Red Bull Salzburg, with loan spells across Europe and some injury issues. He is currently on loan at Slovakian team Podbrezova from Dukla Prague but has only played six times this season.