Bright Osayi-Samuel has opened up on his relationship with Cranes striker Uche Ikpeazu, saying the St Johnstone striker will be backing Nigeria for the remainder of the Africa Cup of Nations despite his international allegiance to Uganda. 

Born in England to a Ugandan mother and Nigerian father, kpeazu became cap-tied to the Cranes in September 2025 after coming off the bench in a World Cup qualifier against Mozambique.

Much of the pre-match discussion ahead of Nigeria’s 3-1 victory over Uganda on Tuesday focused on Ikpeazu, who had previously been called up to a Nigeria U23 training camp in December 2014.

With an eye on the knockout stages of the competition, Bright Osayi-Samuel was rested for the encounter, while the Uganda number nine featured for 85 minutes.

Ikpeazu was unable to add to his Afcon tally as resolute defending from Calvin Bassey and, later, Chidozie Awaziem ensured he was kept quiet.

Osayi-Samuel explained that his long-standing friendship with Ikpeazu dates back to their formative years in English football. 

"I played with him at Blackpool when I was actually 17 or 18. We’re from London as well, so we have mutual friends, " Osayi-Samuel said to Elegbete TV Sports.

"I’ve known him for quite a while, he’s a great guy. He’s also Nigerian, so even though they are out now, I know for sure he’s definitely supporting us."

Osayi-Samuel also spoke about competition for places within the Super Eagles squad, highlighting the importance of healthy rivalry, particularly at right-back, where Ryan Alebiosu is a direct competitor. 

"It's good competition; it’s what the team needs, two players fighting for the same position. It improves the team because we both want the best for the side.”

Reflecting on Alebiosu's Afcon debut, Osayi-Samuel was full of praise despite the Blackburn Rovers defender's injury setback.

"He played very well and had a great debut, which was good to see. Unfortunately, getting injured on your debut is a bit sad.

"But overall, I'm sure he’ll be happy he made his debut at the Africa Cup of Nations and played well. I wish him all the best."

Alebiosu sustained a deep cut on his right leg during his cap-tying appearance for Nigeria, which could potentially rule him out of the Africa Cup of Nations.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel