Arokodare eyes Super Eagles’ recall after AFCON omission
Sports • Feb 22
**Super Eagles Striker, Arokodare, Sees AFCON Omission as an Opportunity for Growth**
For Nigerian football fans, the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) was a thrilling spectacle that brought the country together, culminating in a bronze medal for the Super Eagles in Morocco. However, amidst the euphoria, one notable omission stood out – that of striker Tolu Arokodare. In a recent interview, Arokodare opened up about his exclusion from the squad, and surprisingly, it didn't come as a shock to him.
The 23-year-old forward, who had an impressive stint with KRC Genk before joining Wolverhampton Wanderers, revealed that he had anticipated being left out of the squad. He attributed this to his inconsistent form and limited minutes on the pitch at the time, which made it challenging to stand out amidst the competitive pool of attackers vying for a spot in the Super Eagles.
Arokodare pointed to Nigeria's FIFA World Cup qualifying playoff against DR Congo as a turning point in his fortunes. He acknowledged that he didn't quite make the desired impact in that game, which ultimately had a ripple effect on his chances of making the AFCON squad.
**The Brutal Reality of Competition**
Arokodare's candid admission highlights the harsh realities of football, where form and consistency are often the determining factors in selection. He recognized that the likes of Victor Osimhen and Paul Onuachu were in a league of their own, delivering consistently at both club and international levels. The competition was fierce, with other talented strikers like Akor Adams, Cyriel Dessers, Terem Moffi, and Victor Boniface all vying for a spot.
The exclusion from the AFCON squad was indeed painful for Arokodare, but he has since channelled that disappointment into a renewed focus on his game. With increased minutes and improved performances at Wolves, he is slowly rebuilding his momentum and making a strong case for a recall to the Super Eagles.
Arokodare's story serves as a reminder that even in the face of adversity, there is always an opportunity for growth and redemption in football. Will he get another chance to represent the Super Eagles? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain – Arokodare is working hard to prove himself, both on and off the pitch.