Isaac James ‘cried’ after receiving first Nigeria call-up

Alverca defender Isaac James says he cried after being selected for Nigeria’s squad for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying matches against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau.

The 22-year-old is one of three uncapped players called up by Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle for the two fixtures. He joins forwards Moses Usor and George Ilhenikena in receiving a first invitation to the senior national team.

James said representing Nigeria had always been an ambition, but he was surprised to be included so soon after establishing himself at the start of the season.

“I was doing good at the start of the season, but I didn’t expect to get a call-up immediately. I know it is my dream to be in the national team,” James told the Super Eagles media.

“When the coach called me, I was so surprised. I didn’t expect it. I was happy.”

‘I have been dreaming of playing for the national team’

James said the significance of the call-up became clear when he learned he would be joining a group that includes several established Nigeria players.

“I must confess, I cried. I have been dreaming of playing for the national team. We have good players here, and to be among them, I’m very happy,” he added.

The defender also described how his family discovered the news, after posts about his selection began appearing online.

“Actually, I started seeing a lot of posts about it (the Super Eagles invitation). My brothers and sisters started sending me posts. They were like, ‘Is it true? You are going to the national team?’ I told them it was real.”

James said his club were equally pleased with his selection and believed he was the first Nigerian player from Alverca to be called up by the national team.

“My club was also happy. I think I’m the first Nigerian guy from the club to be called up to the national team. Everyone was happy. I got a lot of calls.”

The invitation comes after James’ positive start to the season with Alverca, although he admitted he had not expected his form to lead to an immediate opportunity with Nigeria.

His inclusion gives him the chance to make his international debut in the Super Eagles’ upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign, with Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau the opponents for the two matches.