Moses Usor vows to justify expectations after dream Super Eagles debut

Super Eagles forward Moses Usor has pledged to give his best whenever he represents Nigeria, acknowledging the expectations that come with wearing the national-team shirt after a dream debut against Madagascar.

The Austrian-based LASK forward scored the winning goal in Nigeria’s 2-1 comeback victory over Madagascar in their opening 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium, Uyo, on Friday.

Usor, who was introduced alongside Moses Simon, struck in the 65th minute to seal the victory after George Ilenikhena had cancelled out Ehsan Kari’s opener in first-half stoppage time.

Speaking with the Super Eagles Media team, the forward said he understood that Nigerian supporters would expect a lot from him but was determined to make the most of every opportunity.

“Nothing much, just to put my best whenever I’m on the pitch and add to the attacking force. That’s just to put my best whenever I’m there, whenever I’m wearing the badge.

“It’s very, very important because I know Nigeria will be expecting much from me, but I just have to put my best whenever I’m there,” he said.

A dream come true

Usor described his first appearance for the Super Eagles as an overwhelming experience, admitting that he initially struggled to believe he was playing at that level.

“I was still surprised, wondering if it was a dream, because playing at this level is a big dream for me. I was like, ‘Okay, this is me,’” he said.

The forward also expressed delight at having his family present to witness the milestone, describing the occasion as particularly meaningful.

“After my goal, I had to go down on my knees to pray, as I do after every goal, to thank God for it. But it was a different feeling because my family was also here. I was really happy seeing everyone here.”

Usor said sharing the pitch with established Super Eagles players was another highlight of his debut.

“It’s something I’ve dreamed of, to play with and be in the same camp with them. It’s a different feeling playing alongside these men, so it’s a great feeling.”

Simon’s advice

The forward also credited experienced teammate Moses Simon for helping him approach the match with confidence.

Usor said Simon encouraged him to play naturally and take risks, particularly when presented with opportunities to challenge defenders one-on-one.

“He was telling me, ‘Just play your game and be yourself. If you have the ball and you want to go one-on-one, go for it. Take the risk.’

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“So, he gave me this mindset to play the game, and I just took the mentality of taking risks because football is all about risk. I took that mentality and went out there to play my game,” he said.

The advice appeared to pay off as Usor made an immediate impact, scoring the decisive goal in his first senior international appearance.

The Super Eagles are now in Bissau to face Guinea-Bissau in their second Group L qualifying fixture on Tuesday, with coach Éric Chelle seeking another victory to strengthen Nigeria’s position in the race for a place at the 2027 AFCON, which will be co-hosted by Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda.