Pisa forward Rafiu Durosinmi has hailed his first call-up to the Super Eagles as a dream come true, expressing deep pride and gratitude for the opportunity to represent Nigeria at the Unity Cup tournament in London. The 23-year-old striker earned his maiden national team invitation after a standout season split between Czech club FC Viktoria Plzeň and Italian Serie A side Pisa. Nigeria’s campaign begins on Tuesday against Zimbabwe at The Valley, with Durosinmi determined to seize his chance with the three-time African champions.
Durosinmi’s journey to the national team has been built on consistent performances abroad. He netted 13 goals in 30 appearances for Viktoria Plzeň before moving to Pisa in the winter transfer window, where he added another goal in his limited Serie A outings. His goal-scoring form and physical presence in attack caught the attention of the Super Eagles coaching staff, leading to his inclusion in the squad for the Unity Cup.
Speaking to the Super Eagles media team, Durosinmi described the call-up as one of the most significant moments of his career. “I was so happy because it is a great honour out of many talents from Nigeria and all over the world,” he said. He immediately shared the news with his family and agent, who also celebrated the milestone. For Durosinmi, donning the Super Eagles jersey is a realization of a lifelong dream. “It means a lot to me. It is a great honour to put on the jersey. It is just like seeing dreams come to pass.”
The forward has set his sights high, aiming to leave a lasting legacy with the national team. “I want to finish my career as a legend,” he declared. “I want to be someone that plays for Super Eagles, the name they would remember. When Durosinmi played for Super Eagles, he gave his best and was one of the best. That’s how I want to finish my career.”
Durosinmi also credited several top Nigerian strikers for inspiring his development. He named Galatasaray’s Victor Osimhen, Trabzonspor’s Paul Onuachu, and Sevilla’s Akor Adams as players he admires. “I am not really someone that watches football but now watching the Super Eagles play, the person I have watched play is Osimhen and also I watch Paul Onuachu when he plays for his club and national team. And also Akor Adams is doing great. I think they are a good example for me.”
As Nigeria looks to defend the Unity Cup title, Durosinmi will compete for a starting spot in attack. His inclusion adds depth to the squad and highlights the growing pool of Nigerian talent thriving in European leagues. With ambition, humility, and a strong work ethic, Durosinmi is poised to make his mark on the international stage.
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