Usor Aims to Follow in Simon's Footsteps

Super Eagles new player Moses Usor wants to copy the consistency, humility, and commitment of Moses Simon. Simon is a star for Nigeria with 100 caps as Usor starts his international career.

Usor made his Nigeria debut last Friday. He came off the bench and scored the winning goal in the Super Eagles’ 2-1 comeback win against Madagascar. This was their first match in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers in Uyo.

The 24-year-old forward plays for LASK. He entered the game in the second half and in just 14 minutes, he made a great individual effort to complete Nigeria’s comeback. George Ilenikhena had already equalized after Ehsan Kari scored the first goal for Madagascar.

The match was even more special for Usor because Simon hit his own milestone. The Nantes winger became the fifth Nigerian to reach 100 senior international appearances when he came on against Madagascar.

For Usor, playing alongside a player he looks up to was a big motivation. "I want to be like Moses Simon, his consistency, his humility, his commitment to the team over so many seasons," he told Footy-Africa.

"It’s special to share the name Moses and go through this night with him. Getting to 100 caps for Nigeria is a massive achievement."

Usor knows that one goal does not define a career. "Now it’s about work. I want to stay humble, keep learning from the senior players, and keep fighting for my shirt. I want Nigerians to know I’m here to give everything."

Before this, Usor was called up to the Super Eagles for the 2026 Unity Cup but missed it due to injury. His chance came again before Nigeria’s first two AFCON qualifiers, and he made a strong impact against Madagascar.

The forward was determined to make the most of his chance when he got into the game. As Nigeria prepares to face Guinea-Bissau in their second Group L qualifier on Tuesday, Usor hopes his strong start will help him earn a spot in the starting lineup. The Super Eagles are looking for a second straight win.