"An Honour to Play for Nigeria

An Honour to Play for Nigeria

Femi Azeez’s stunning two-goal debut for Nigeria in the Unity Cup semi-final against Zimbabwe has put the 24-year-old Millwall forward on the international map, as the Super Eagles advanced to the final with a comfortable 2-0 victory at The Valley in London. Born in London, Azeez is eligible to represent England, Nigeria, and Spain through his parents, but he chose to don the green and white of the Super Eagles, making his mark in style. His goals came early in the first half and shortly after the hour mark, sealing a dominant performance that showcased his composure and attacking quality.

Azeez, who previously played for Reading, admitted that staying calm before kick-off was key to his success on the pitch. “It’s an honor to play for Nigeria, so I thought let me show what I can do. I was relaxed before the game. And yeah, and I was lucky enough to get two goals,” he said in an interview with Proudly Austin. Despite the pressure of making his international debut, the winger approached the match with confidence and freedom, qualities that helped him shine under the spotlight.

The victory over Zimbabwe marks Nigeria’s continued success in the 2026 Unity Cup, a four-nation tournament being held in London. As defending champions, the Super Eagles are now one step away from retaining their title, with the final set against Jamaica. Azeez expressed optimism ahead of the showdown, stating, “Hopefully more of the same, more attacking, freedom, and hopefully we win the trophy.” His comments reflect the team’s attacking mindset under head coach Eric Chelle, who has been rebuilding the squad with a focus on youth and pace.

Chelle praised Azeez’s attacking prowess while noting there is still room for improvement in his tactical discipline. The forward’s performance also earned recognition from his club, Millwall, which lauded his contribution to Nigeria’s cause. His brace not only secured a place in the final but also signaled a promising future for the tri-national talent in the Nigerian setup.

Nigeria’s journey in the Unity Cup continues with high expectations, as fans and pundits alike look forward to seeing Azeez and his teammates in action against Jamaica. The tournament remains a crucial platform for emerging stars, and Azeez’s debut has already cemented his place as a player to watch in Nigeria’s upcoming campaigns. His performance is a reminder that talent, when paired with national pride and calm confidence, can deliver unforgettable moments on the international stage.