Emotional Arokodare Thanks Osimhen for Inspiration After Super Eagles Debut
In a heartwarming display of gratitude and admiration, Super Eagles striker Tolu Arokodare has expressed his appreciation for Victor Osimhen, acknowledging the pivotal role the Napoli star played in his football journey.
Arokodare made his Super Eagles debut during Nigeria’s 2-0 win against Rwanda in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. Coming on as a substitute for Victor Osimhen in the 77th minute, the Racing Genk attacker was visibly emotional as he embraced Osimhen at the Amahoro Stadium. The emotional moment quickly went viral on social media, stirring reactions from fans and sports analysts alike.
The Osimhen Influence
Speaking with OJBsport TV, the 24-year-old forward revealed his admiration for Osimhen, admitting that he regularly watches the likes of Victor Boniface, Ademola Lookman, Alex Iwobi, William Troost-Ekong, Ola Aina, and Calvin Bassey on Instagram.
“Personally, I am not an emotional person. I don’t cry. Last time I cried, I think it was last year. I was just overwhelmed by the entire situation. I couldn’t believe it,” Arokodare said.
“At the start of this season, I almost left Genk, and look at me now, I am playing for the national team.”
He went on to describe Osimhen as more than just a teammate and friend, but a big brother and idol who has had a tremendous impact on his development as a player.
“Since that day, with his words, the gifts, and actions, and me just watching him, he’s played a huge role in my life, and I am very grateful to him. Even inside the dressing room, I hugged him and said, ‘Thank you.’”
From Instagram Follower to Teammate
Arokodare’s journey to the Super Eagles squad is nothing short of inspiring. He admits that playing alongside top Nigerian stars he once admired from afar feels like a dream come true.
“I am playing with the likes of Victor Osimhen, Victor Boniface, Lookman, Iwobi, Troost-Ekong, Ola Aina, Calvin Bassey, players that I watch on Instagram, and I am playing alongside them. And they are telling me, ‘Nice game, great debut.’ It means a lot to me.”
The emotional moment he shared with Osimhen was more than a simple handshake; it was a gesture of deep gratitude for the mentorship and inspiration Osimhen had unknowingly provided over the years.
Opinion: A Brother’s Love and the Making of a Star
Arokodare’s humility and gratitude highlight the importance of mentorship and encouragement in sports. His tears were not just a show of emotions but a testament to the battles he has fought and the appreciation he holds for those who have helped him along the way.
As the Super Eagles look forward to their next clash against Zimbabwe on Tuesday in Uyo, the bond between Osimhen and Arokodare is bound to strengthen both players and the team as a whole.
With Arokodare’s raw talent and passion, coupled with the guidance of his “big brother” Osimhen, Nigeria’s future in international football looks promising.
