Olusegun Olakunle, a newly invited player to Nigeria’s senior national football team, the Super Eagles, has shared insights about how his experiences with the Golden Eaglets and a brief period in Denmark shaped his journey to the senior squad.
Currently playing for Krasnodar in Russia, where he assumed the role of a right-wing-back, Olakunle fondly remembers his earlier days as a striker in Denmark, where he made a significant impact by scoring numerous goals. His career took off following rigorous trials that landed him a spot on the Golden Eaglets for the 2019 FIFA U-17 World Cup in Brazil. After a brief catch with Vista Gelendhik in Denmark, he transitioned to Fremad Amager, where he had an impressive season, scoring nine goals in 34 matches.
Following that successful stint, he moved to Botev Plovdiv in Bulgaria before making his way to Krasnodar, where he has been playing since April 2022. Olakunle expressed his surprise at receiving a call-up to the Super Eagles for an international friendly against Russia, initially doubting his readiness but ultimately acknowledging it as a significant honor.
With three goals in 28 appearances for Krasnodar this season, Olakunle expressed his eagerness to justify the faith placed in him by family and coaches, which has driven him to excel. He emphasized the importance of proving his capabilities and not disappointing those who believe in his potential.
Reflecting on his growth, Olakunle recalled his journey from representing Nigeria at the under-15 level to the Eaglets, where he became the highest goal scorer during qualifiers and earned a spot in the World Cup. He credits his experiences in Denmark for laying the groundwork for his professional career, allowing him to mature as a player.
Olakunle’s story serves as an inspiration for young footballers in Nigeria, proving that dedication and resilience can lead to significant accomplishments on the international stage. His journey illustrates the value of early opportunities in youth leagues and the path to realizing dreams in sports.