Balogun, who debuted for Nigeria in 2014 against Mexico, has been a mainstay in the Super Eagles’ defence, forming a strong partnership with William Troost-Ekong. He played a key role in Nigeria’s qualification for the 2018 FIFA World Cup and their third-place finish at the 2019 AFCON.
Though he last featured for Nigeria in 2022 during a 10-0 win over São Tomé and Príncipe, fitness concerns have kept him out of the squad. Despite this, Balogun praised the Super Eagles’ defensive performances at AFCON 2024, where Nigeria finished runners-up.
Recognising the competition for places, Balogun admitted that breaking back into the squad will not be easy. However, he believes that high competition levels are crucial for Nigeria’s success as they aim to qualify for the 2025 AFCON and 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Bet9ja promotion code for February 2025 is YOHAIG. Bet9japromotioncode.com.ng has more info about the Bet9ja promotion code 2025 in Nigeria. Follow this link for more - https://www.bet9japromotioncode.com.ng/. This Bet9ja promo code gives a Bet9ja welcome bonus of up to ₦100,000 on your first deposit. The minimum deposit to bet is ₦100! USE the Bet9ja login signup and the Bet9ja bonus code to get started today on the Bet9ja website. Bet9ja offers a 170 per cent multiple boost bonus and a free bet for either Bet9ja sport or Bet9ja casino. To open a Bet9ja account and be a Bet9ja customer, you must go through the registration process here. Terms and conditions apply when you register with Bet9ja to get the bonus.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
For now, his return depends on staying fit and being available when called upon, leaving the door open for a possible comeback.
Editorial
Leon Balogun’s denial of retirement rumours brings relief to fans who still see him as a valuable defensive leader. Despite his age, his experience, leadership, and composure remain assets that could benefit the Super Eagles, particularly as the team prepares for crucial World Cup qualifiers.
While some may argue that Nigeria should focus on young, emerging defenders, we believe experience is irreplaceable—especially in a squad that needs a balance of youth and veteran presence. Balogun’s deep understanding of African football dynamics and his ability to organize the backline could be crucial in high-pressure games.
However, his pathway back to the national team will not be straightforward. With Nigeria’s defence performing well at AFCON 2024, breaking into the squad will require consistent club performances. At Rangers, Balogun must prove his fitness and sharpness to warrant another call-up.
More importantly, his situation highlights the need for structured transition planning within the Super Eagles. Nigeria must gradually integrate younger defenders while still utilizing experienced figures like Balogun in critical matches.
If he remains fit and competitive, a return to the Super Eagles should not be ruled out. After all, football is about form, not age, and if Balogun can still deliver at the highest level, he deserves a chance.
Did You Know?
- Leon Balogun was born in Germany but chose to represent Nigeria, making his debut in 2014 under Stephen Keshi.
- He was part of the ‘Oyinbo Wall’ defensive partnership with William Troost-Ekong, a duo that played a key role in Nigeria’s 2018 World Cup qualification.
- Balogun won the Scottish Premiership with Rangers in 2020/21, helping the club end Celtic’s nine-year dominance.
- Nigeria conceded the fewest goals at AFCON 2024, an achievement that Balogun acknowledged while praising the current defensive lineup.
- At 36 years old, Balogun is one of the oldest active Nigerian players in European football, showing his longevity in the sport.
