Glasgow Rangers central defender Leon Balogun has insisted that he's fully committed to the Super Eagles cause.
After Nigeria's shock 1-0 loss to Central African Republic in a 2022 World Cup qualifier last Thursday, several headlines by the local and foreign press suggested that Balogun, in particular, and William Troost-Ekong were to blame for the defeat.
Namnganda
took advantage of a defensive mix-up between Troost-Ekong and
Leon Balogun to slot past goalkeeper Francis Uzoho in the 90th minute
for a win no one saw coming.
Three days later in Douala, the duo made amends for their error, with Balogun firing home from close range to open the scoring in the 29th minute and the Watford man providing the assist for the second goal netted by the Super Eagles just before half-time.
Speaking to ESPN's Colin Udoh, Balogun said : "You've seen me play for a few years now. And you know that when I step onto the pitch I always give 100% and I am always passionate.
"Whether I am having a good performance or a bad performance, you can never actually criticize me for not trying. That is what I always give, that is the least I can do."
Balogun's strike against Central African Republic was his first in Nigeria colours, more than seven years after making his international debut in a pre-World Cup friendly against Mexico.
Ifeanyi Emmanuel
Copyright ANS
All rights reserved. This material,
and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced,
published, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior
express written permission from allnigeriasoccer.com
Victor Osimhen has returned to full training with Galatasaray ahead of their UEFA Champions League knockout phase playoffs second-leg match against Juventus in Turin. The Nigerian striker partici...
On February 24 and 25, it will be hot in Europe’s best arenas: fans are in for the denouement of the knockout phase play-offs of the most prestigious tournament in club football. Get ready for the e...
Peter Olayinka scored ten minutes into his APOEL home debut as the Cypriot First Division giants defeated Francis Uzoho's Omonia 1-0 in the Nicosia derby staged at the GSP Stadium on Sunday, February ...
The Jordan Football Association has confirmed a friendly against Nigeria's Super Eagles on Tuesday evening, March 31, at Amman International Stadium.Last June, Jordan qualified for their first-ever Wo...
February 23, 2026
🍪 Cookie Preferences
We use cookies to enhance your browsing experience. Choose your preference:
Comments 0
Leave a Comment
No comments yet. Be the first to comment!