Super Eagles debutant Femi Azeez has expressed delight after making history with a stunning two goal display in Nigeria’s 2-0 Unity Cup victory over Zimbabwe.
The Millwall winger enjoyed a dream start to life in the national team, scoring twice on his first appearance to become the first Super Eagles player in the 21st century to net a brace on debut.
Super Eagles debutant Femi Azeez reacts after scoring a historic brace against Zimbabwe in the Unity Cup and explains Eric Chelle’s tactical freedom.
Azeez’s standout performance helped Nigeria secure a place in the Unity Cup final, but despite the goals, Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle admitted there were aspects of the winger’s performance that still left him unsatisfied.
“He scored two goals, congratulations to him, but also lost a lot of balls technically, so I’m not happy,” Chelle said after the game.
“He won the ball back many times, sometimes he didn’t recover the ball, so I’m not happy. But for the first time, we can say, ‘Azeez, congratulations.’”
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Despite Chelle’s honest assessment, Azeez was understandably delighted after his memorable debut and admitted he had no idea he had entered the record books.
“I didn’t know I’m the first player to score a brace on my debut, so it’s a good feeling I guess,” Azeez told NFW Pod.
The 24-year-old credited Chelle for allowing attacking players the freedom to express themselves in the final third, a tactical approach he believes helped him thrive.
“Of course, excitement, comfort and expression. The coach gave us the freedom to do what we want in the final third and to express ourselves.
“That’s why we’re here, so, when I saw the opening to shoot, I went for it and didn’t think twice.”
Azeez also revealed he was adapting to an unfamiliar role after being deployed centrally rather than in his usual wide attacking position.
Femi Azeez of Nigeria. Photocredit: Imago
The England-born winger admitted playing as a number 10 was a new experience but praised the Super Eagles coaching staff for helping him settle quickly.
“You know, I’ve never played that role before, so, I’ve had a couple of days to train in that position and I’ve really enjoyed it.
“A lot of the staff really helped me to feel my way into the role. I was okay in my surroundings, and I was able to express myself.”
The former Reading player reiterated his desire to represent Nigeria and vowed to continue giving everything whenever called upon.
“That’s why I’m here. I want to represent this country, so I’ll do as much as I can,” he said.
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Nigeria will now turn attention to Saturday’s Unity Cup final, with kick-off scheduled for 2:30 PM WAT as the Super Eagles chase another trophy.
