Abandoned 29-year-old striker's match-winner sends strong message to Super Eagles coach Eguavoen

Super Eagles interim boss, Augustine Eguavoen

Abandoned 29-year-old striker's match-winner sends strong message to Super Eagles coach Eguavoen

Izuchukwu Akawor • Izuchukwu Akawor • 09:16 - 25.10.2024

The in-form striker has been ignored by Augustine Eguavoen and the Super Eagles despite his impressive form for the club.

Super Eagles-eligible forward Chuba Akpom has sent another strong message to Super Eagles coach Augustine Eguavoen with his match-winning performance for Ajax in their Europa League clash against nine-man Qarabag FK.

The 29-year-old striker, who has been overlooked by the national team despite his impressive club form, netted the decisive winner in Ajax's 3-0 victory on Thursday.

Coming off the bench just before the hour mark, Akpom made an immediate impact, scoring 13 minutes from time to secure the win for his side.

This marked his second consecutive goal for Ajax, adding to his tally of five goals and one assist in just two starts this season.

Wout Weghorst and Chuba Akpom celebrate for Ajax.
Wout Weghorst and Chuba Akpom celebrate for Ajax.

Notably, he also completed the most dribbles in the match and achieved an impressive 92% pass completion rate.

Despite these standout performances, Akpom has yet to earn a call-up to the Super Eagles since becoming eligible to represent Nigeria at the age of 23.

Augustine Eguavoen passed his Super Eagles interim test without calling Akpom.
Augustine Eguavoen passed his Super Eagles interim test without calling Akpom.

His continued exclusion from the national team raises eyebrows, particularly as Nigeria prepares for next month’s AFCONQ2025 qualifiers against Benin Republic and Rwanda.

Akpom's latest strike serves as a reminder to Coach Eguavoen, who is expected to announce his squad for the upcoming matches soon as he looks to end the year on a high after improved performances and world ranking.

Akpom has five goals in just two starts across competitions this season.
Akpom has five goals in just two starts across competitions this season.

Akpom's journey has been marked by resilience and determination, and his recent form underscores his potential as a valuable asset for Nigeria.

While he continues to shine at Ajax, it is left to be seen if Eguavoen recognises his contributions and allows him to don the Super Eagles jersey any time soon.