River Plate’s teenage forward Jonathan Spiff Asuzu has declared his intention to represent Nigeria at the FIFA U20 World Cup, turning down the possibility of playing for Argentina, the country of his birth. The 18-year-old striker, who has been in blistering form for River Plate’s U20 side with 16 goals in 18 matches, is eligible for both Nigeria and Argentina.
Born in Palermo, Buenos Aires, to a Nigerian father, Godwin Asuzu, and an Argentine mother, Maria, Asuzu has chosen to follow in the footsteps of his heritage. Although he remains uncapped at any international level, Asuzu’s camp has now made a public appeal to Flying Eagles head coach, Aliyu Zubairu, to consider the teenage sensation for selection.
Asuzu’s father, who has lived in Argentina for more than three decades, insists that the choice was his son’s to make and fully supports his decision. “Despite all that is happening in Nigeria, I believe we should always be patriotic,” Godwin Asuzu said. “I am happy that we are not forcing him to choose Nigeria or Argentina, the decision has been his all along and it is left for the authorities to seek him out.”
READ MORE: Nigeria-eligible goalkeeper breaks Manuel Neuer’s record, eyes U21 Euro title with Germany
Godwin Asuzu moved to Argentina 32 years ago in search of work and settled down with Maria. Their son, Jonathan, began training with River Plate at the age of seven after impressing in a youth trial and has risen through the ranks with impressive consistency. Jonathan, who idolizes River Plate graduate and Manchester City forward Julián Álvarez, is now top scorer in Argentina’s sixth division. His speed, intelligence, and clinical finishing with both feet have earned him high praise among coaches and scouts alike.
River Plate’s teenage forward Jonathan Spiff Asuzu
Despite interest from Argentina’s youth set-up, Asuzu has always voiced a preference for Nigeria. According to his father, the teen star has always talked about playing for the Golden Eaglets or the Flying Eagles instead of donning the Albiceleste’s shirts. The Flying Eagles struggled with attacking quality at the U20 AFCON, and Asuzu’s camp believes the youngster could bring the cutting edge Nigeria lacked in the final third.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE ATHLETIC NG WHATSAPP CHANNEL NOW!
Now, the ball is in Nigeria’s court. Will the Flying Eagles coaching staff take notice of Asuzu’s talent and include him in their squad for the FIFA U20 World Cup? Only time will tell. With his impressive form and clear desire to represent Nigeria, Asuzu could be a valuable addition to the Flying Eagles’ squad. As the team prepares to take on the best young players in the world, they will be hoping to make a strong impression and bring glory to Nigeria.
