Isaac James has been waiting for this moment for some time. He received his first call-up to the Nigeria national team, news that deeply touched the Alverca defender. At just 22 years old, he admits he did not expect to reach the senior squad so quickly.
His performances at the start of the season have attracted attention, but James did not expect to receive a phone call from Éric Chelle so soon.
“I was having an excellent season, but I didn’t think I would be called up so quickly,” he said in comments reported by Africa Foot. Surprise quickly turned to joy when he learned he would be joining the Super Eagles.
For the young defender, this call-up is primarily the realization of a dream. He confided that he cried after the announcement of his selection, as wearing the Nigeria jersey has always meant a lot to him.
“I have dreamed of representing the national team for a long time,” he stated.
His family also experienced this news with great emotion. His brothers and sister first discovered the information on social media before asking him for confirmation. His Portuguese club also celebrated this first selection, seen as a significant moment for both the player and Alverca.
This call-up is the reward for a journey marked by the quest for playing time. After his experience in France, James moved to Portugal, where he gradually showcased his skills. He is now among the three players receiving their first invitation to the Super Eagles for the first two matches of the qualifiers for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.
