Porto striker still eligible for Super Eagles despite Spain debut

Porto’s dual national forward Samuel Aghehowa, who recently made his senior debut for Spain, remains eligible to represent Nigeria despite participating in a competitive match for La Roja. The 20 year old striker, born to Nigerian parents in Melilla, Spain, was substituted into the UEFA Nations League match against Switzerland, where Spain secured a 3-2 victory.

According to FIFA rules, players with dual nationality can switch allegiances before turning 21, provided they have not played in more than three competitive matches for their first national team. Aghehowa has only one competitive cap for Spain, leaving the door open for a potential switch to Nigeria.

Super Eagles interim coach Augustine Eguavoen reportedly maintains close ties with Aghehowa’s family, particularly his mother, who hails from Edo State. The Nigerian Football Federation NFF may consider leveraging these connections to bring the promising forward into the Super Eagles setup.

Aghehowa has had an impressive start to the season at Porto, scoring 12 goals in 13 appearances, including a standout performance against Manchester United in the Europa League. His versatility and goal-scoring prowess make him an attractive prospect for both Nigeria and Spain.

Editorial

The case of Samuel Aghehowa underscores the complexities of international football eligibility. While the young forward has made a promising debut for Spain, his ties to Nigeria offer a unique opportunity for the Super Eagles to strengthen their attacking options.

Aghehowa’s decision will likely hinge on several factors, including playing opportunities, the potential for international success, and personal connections. Nigeria’s pitch to him must emphasise the chance to become a key figure in the Super Eagles squad, offering him a prominent role that Spain might not immediately guarantee.

For Nigeria, securing players like Aghehowa is crucial for building a competitive team capable of excelling on the global stage. His performance at Porto showcases his readiness to contribute significantly to any team he joins. The NFF and Eguavoen must act decisively to highlight the benefits of choosing Nigeria over Spain.

This situation also highlights the need for Nigeria to actively scout and engage with its diaspora talent. By establishing strong relationships early on, the NFF can ensure that promising players feel valued and motivated to represent their homeland.

Did You Know?

1. FIFA allows players under 21 with dual nationality to switch allegiance, provided they have played fewer than four competitive matches for their first national team.
2. Samuel Aghehowa was born in Melilla, a Spanish city in North Africa, to Nigerian parents.
3. His debut for Spain came as a halftime substitute for Álvaro Morata in a UEFA Nations League match.
4. Aghehowa has represented Spain at various youth levels, including U19, U21, and U23.
5. His standout club performances include a Europa League brace against Manchester United this season.