Home National Football Teams Mutiu Adepoju: It was difficult breaking into Nigeria USA 1994 squad

Mutiu Adepoju: It was difficult breaking into Nigeria USA 1994 squad

Ex Nigeria international, Mutiu Adepoju popularly called the “headmaster” has reminisced his first appearance for the National team coming way back in 1990 as he recalls the beautiful memories of the USA 1994 World Cup outing.

He narrated: “I was in the U-20 before the 1994 World cup, I made my debut in 1990 and was an active part of those who played the qualifiers so it wasn’t easy breaking into the senior team, the coaches were monitoring my performances and with my determination and hardwork, I was able to make the team and participate in the first World Cup outing.

“There was no nervousness before the Bulgaria game but an ecstatic feeling as the first outing in the World Cup game, we knew most of the players, we had respect for them and we were confidence in the team, individual players and our hardwork.”

“People usually tell different tales about our loss to Italy, its just like in every group, things are bound to happen in camp, truthfully, there was a little argument about moving away from the hotel, that was all I can remember before the defeat to Italy, that wasn’t what affected us in the game”, Mutiu succinctly clarified.

“I am very happy to be part of such history for my country, one of the memorable moments of my career as a player, Nothing beats it for me.”