Slavia Prague defender Igoh Ogbu has lauded the performance of Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) players during the Unity Cup tournament in London, where Nigeria retained the title with a dominant 3-0 victory over Jamaica in the final at The Valley on Saturday night. The win marks another strong showing for the Super Eagles as they continue building momentum ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. Ogbu, who played a key role in the tournament, expressed immense pride in the team’s unity and overall performance, crediting both the domestic players and the coaching staff for the success.
Speaking to Proudly Austin after the match, Ogbu described the feeling of victory as “amazing” and said he was “very happy” with how the team executed their game plan. He emphasized that the presence and contribution of NPFL players in the squad proved that talent exists across all levels of Nigerian football. “I am very proud of them because they showed that Nigeria is for all,” Ogbu said. “They had a good outing and we are here to serve the country and we did good.”
The defender highlighted how the inclusion of domestic-based players added depth and diversity to the squad, reinforcing the message that national team selection should not be limited to foreign-based stars. He noted that these players brought passion, work ethic, and commitment, which were evident throughout the tournament. Their performance, according to Ogbu, was a testament to the strength of Nigeria’s football ecosystem beyond the elite European leagues.
Ogbu also praised the coaching staff, particularly the head coach, for their tactical insight and ability to instill discipline in the team. He believes the improved performances since the Africa Cup of Nations are a direct result of better communication and understanding on the pitch. “I think our coach understands football, understands how the game works, and we listen to him,” he said. This cohesion, he added, has created a more balanced and confident team.
With the Unity Cup triumph secured, the Super Eagles are now shifting focus to upcoming international friendlies against Poland and Portugal. These matches are part of the broader preparation for the 2027 AFCON qualifiers, where Nigeria aims to defend its continental title and maintain its status as a football powerhouse in Africa. Ogbu’s positive outlook and recognition of domestic talent signal a growing confidence in Nigeria’s football development strategy. The victory in London not only boosts national pride but also strengthens the foundation for future success on the international stage.
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