Divine Nwachukwu: A Rising Star in Nigeria’s Football Landscape
Divine Nwachukwu, born on May 25, 2003, is a Nigerian football player who has quickly become the talk of the town in Nigeria’s football landscape. Super Eagles head coach, Jose Peseiro, recently extended a coveted international call-up to this talented youngster, instantly propelling him into the spotlight.
Nwachukwu embarked on his football journey as a forward with the national U15 team, leading them to a stellar performance at the African Youth Games in Morocco. As captain of the national U15 squad, known as the Future Eagles, Divine’s talent was evident, hinting at a future filled with national glory.
The youngster duly progressed to the U17 national team, where he was one of the youngest members of the Golden Eaglets squad at the 2019 Africa U17 Cup of Nations and the subsequent World Cup. Although primarily appearing as a substitute in both competitions, his talent was evident to close watchers of that team.
Unlike some of his teammates, Nwachukwu failed to secure moves to European clubs after turning 18. But the youngster made the bold decision to feature for Bendel Insurance in the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) instead.
Nwachukwu’s debut campaign in the NPFL with Bendel Insurance has been breathtaking. He played a pivotal role in the team’s remarkable 26-match unbeaten run in all competitions, which was only recently halted by a 2-1 defeat to Rivers United at the Championship Playoffs. Throughout the regular season, Nwachukwu showcased his skills, never missing a game and contributing with one goal and four crucial assists.
At the Super Six, Nwachukwu turned into a monstrous beast. Unstoppable from midfield, the former youth international dazzled onlookers, including Super Eagles tactician Jose Peseiro, with three goals in Insurance’s first four games. A big-game player, Nwachukwu scored against defending champions Rivers United and netted the equalizer against eventual winners Enyimba International.
The highly applauded news arrived when Divine Nwachukwu was named in the 23-man roster for the Super Eagles’ upcoming AFCON 2023 qualifier against Sierra Leone. Jose Peseiro, thrilled by his excellent output, included Nwachukwu among the four home-based players for the crucial Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Sierra Leone next weekend.
FIFA U-17 World Cup-winning coach Manu Garba has expressed delight over Divine Nwachukwu’s well-deserved invitation to the senior national team. Having nurtured him while with the 2019 Golden Eaglets, Garba commends Nwachukwu’s progress and lauds his exceptional skills.
Nwachukwu will likely not start the match against Sierra Leone. Jose Peseiro’s number-one choice for the attacking midfield role remains Alex Iwobi. However, the youngster can be an option from the bench, especially in the closing stages if Nigeria have a healthy lead secured.
The match against Sierra Leone looms as a significant moment for Nwachukwu. While he may face tough competition for a starting position, his inclusion in the squad speaks volumes about his abilities and the belief Peseiro has in his talent. Should he make his senior debut, it will mark a milestone in his career and solidify his status as a rising star on the international stage.
