Owen Oseni etched his name into history after becoming the first Irish-born player to represent the senior Nigeria national football team during their 2-0 Unity Cup semi-final victory over Zimbabwe national football team at The Valley on Tuesday.
The 23-year-old forward, born in Waterford, Ireland, was introduced in the 77th minute as Nigeria secured a controlled win to book their place in the tournament final. His appearance marked a milestone moment, making him the first player born in Ireland to ever feature for the Super Eagles at senior level.
Oseni arrived in the Nigeria squad after a productive season with Plymouth Argyle F.C., where he scored 10 goals in 32 appearances across all competitions. His sharp attacking form in the English League One campaign played a key role in earning his first senior international call-up.
Before his breakthrough at Plymouth, the striker developed through several clubs, including Waterford F.C. and Gateshead F.C., where he impressed with 12 goals in 24 matches. His journey also included spells at St Mirren F.C. and Derby County F.C.
That steady rise in form across different leagues ultimately convinced Nigeria coach Eric Chelle to include him in the Unity Cup squad.
While Oseni’s debut captured attention, the match itself was dominated by Femi Azeez, who scored twice in a commanding performance for the Super Eagles.
Nigeria opened the scoring early and maintained control throughout the contest, with Zimbabwe offering resistance but struggling to create clear chances.
Azeez added a second goal in the second half to secure the win, but Oseni’s introduction remained one of the key talking points as Nigeria continued their preparations for the final.
Before making his debut, Oseni admitted the call-up represented a major step in his career progression, highlighting both the competition and prestige of representing Nigeria on the international stage.
The forward, eligible for Nigeria, Ireland, and Ivory Coast, ultimately chose to commit his future to the Super Eagles, marking the beginning of his senior international journey.
Nigeria will now face the winner of the semi-final between Jamaica national football team and India national football team in the Unity Cup final.
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