Rangers Celebrate Defender’s First Super Eagles Call Up

NPFL side Rangers celebrated their defender Kenneth Igboke’s first invitation to the national team camp. Igboke was called up by head coach Finidi George as a replacement for injured Napoli striker Victor Osimhen for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against South Africa and the Benin Republic.

Igboke has been a standout performer for Rangers this season, scoring three goals for the Flying Antelopes. The club took to social media to celebrate his achievement, writing, Dear Kenneth Igboke, congratulations on your first national team call up for next month’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches against South Africa and Benin Republic. We’re incredibly proud of you and confident you’ll make us all proud. Best of luck, Igboke.

Igboke’s call up increases the number of home based players in the squad to three. The Super Eagles are expected to open camp for the two fixtures this weekend. The three time African champions will host South Africa at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Friday, June 7, and then travel to Abidjan to face Benin Republic three days later.

Editorial

Kenneth Igboke’s call up to the Super Eagles is a significant milestone in his career and a proud moment for both him and his club, Rangers. This achievement underscores the importance of domestic leagues in nurturing talents that can compete on the international stage.

For many players in the NPFL, a call up to the national team represents the pinnacle of their professional journey. It serves as recognition of their hard work, dedication, and consistent performance. Igboke’s inclusion in the Super Eagles squad is a testament to his impressive form this season, where he has not only defended resolutely but also contributed crucial goals for his team.

The decision by head coach Finidi George to include home based players like Igboke highlights a positive trend towards valuing domestic talent. This approach can have several benefits, including boosting the morale of players in the NPFL, encouraging them to strive for excellence, and enhancing the overall competitiveness of the league.

The presence of home based players in the national team can foster a stronger connection between local fans and the Super Eagles. Fans who see their local heroes donning the national jersey will likely feel a greater sense of pride and support for the team. This connection can also inspire young, aspiring footballers across Nigeria, demonstrating that they can achieve similar success with talent and hard work.

As Nigeria prepares for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers, the inclusion of players like Igboke will bring fresh energy and a new perspective to the squad. His experience in the NPFL will add depth to the team’s defensive options and provide a valuable learning opportunity as he integrates with more experienced international players.

For Igboke, this is just the beginning. His call up is an opportunity to showcase his skills on a bigger stage, learn from his peers, and contribute to the success of the Super Eagles. It is also a chance to cement his place in the national team and become a regular feature in future selections.

Igboke’s national team call up is a moment of celebration and pride for him, his club, and the NPFL. It highlights the potential within Nigeria’s domestic league and underscores the importance of investing in and supporting home grown talent. As fans, we look forward to seeing Igboke in action and wish him and the Super Eagles the best of luck in their upcoming matches.

Did You Know?

1. The Nigerian Professional Football League NPFL is the top level football league in Nigeria, established in 1972.
2. Kenneth Igboke has been a key player for the Rangers, contributing both defensively and offensively with crucial goals.
3. The Super Eagles have a rich history in African football, having won the Africa Cup of Nations three times.
4. The Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, where Nigeria will host South Africa, is one of the most modern stadiums in Nigeria, with a capacity of 30,000.
5. The inclusion of home based players in the national team can significantly boost the visibility and competitiveness of the NPFL, encouraging more investment and support for domestic football.