Tochukwu Nnadi, the Marseille midfielder, has revealed that his primary dream before earning his first call-up to the Nigeria national team was to play in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, despite being selected for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. The 22-year-old made his senior debut for the Super Eagles in a group-stage match against Uganda, marking a significant milestone in his international career. His inclusion in the final squad came as a surprise, especially since Nigeria’s hopes of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup were ended in November 2025 by a penalty shootout defeat to the Democratic Republic of Congo in the African playoffs.
Nnadi shared his feelings during an interview on AySuga Channel, recalling the emotional moment he received the call-up. He was on a phone call with his father when the news came through, and he admitted he had been focused on the World Cup for years. “I had dreams of playing in the World Cup, not the Afcon. It was a surprise for me. I was happy,” he said. Despite the unexpected opportunity, he expressed his ambition to achieve even greater milestones. “Being in the Afcon was great, but I want more,” he added, showing his hunger for future success.
The midfielder’s consistent performances earned him a place in all of Nigeria’s matches during the recent friendly series against Zimbabwe, Jamaica, Poland, and Portugal. His five appearances for the Super Eagles have solidified his position as a reliable presence in the squad. Nnadi’s journey to the senior team began with his standout performances at the youth level, notably as a key player for the Flying Eagles during the 2023 FIFA U20 World Cup. His experience and composure on the field have made him a valuable asset for Nigeria’s midfield.
Before joining Marseille, Nnadi played for Botev Plovdiv in Bulgaria, where he developed his skills and gained international exposure. His progression from youth football to the senior national team reflects his dedication and talent. As Nigeria continues to rebuild and prepare for future tournaments, players like Nnadi are seen as crucial to the team’s long-term success. His focus remains on the 2026 World Cup, a goal he has set for himself and shared with friends two years ago.
With his performances already earning recognition, Nnadi is expected to play a bigger role in Nigeria’s upcoming fixtures. His ambition, combined with his consistent form, positions him as a rising star in Nigerian football. As the Super Eagles look ahead to future qualifiers and tournaments, Nnadi’s journey from youth international to senior squad member highlights the growing depth in Nigeria’s football talent. His story is one of perseverance and vision, and he is determined to make his mark on the world stage.
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