Nigeria defender Isaac James opens up on emotional Super Eagles call-up

Newly invited Super Eagles defender Isaac James has opened up about his maiden call-up to the Nigeria senior national team, admitting that he was moved to tears after receiving the invitation.

The 22-year-old Alverca defender was included in head coach Éric Chelle’s squad as Nigeria prepare for their upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying fixtures.

The Super Eagles are set to face Madagascar in Uyo before travelling to Bissau for their meeting with Guinea-Bissau, with James hoping to make an impression as he begins his journey with the senior national team.

For the young defender, the call-up represents the realisation of a dream he has carried for years. Although he had been performing well at club level, James did not expect his opportunity with the national team to come so quickly.

Speaking to the Super Eagles media team, the Alverca defender revealed that he was caught completely off guard when Chelle contacted him.

“I was doing good during the season, you know, but I didn’t expect to get the call-up immediately because I know it’s my dream to be here. So when the coach called me, I was so surprised because I didn’t expect it to be so soon,” James said.

The defender explained that while representing Nigeria had always been one of his ambitions, he had expected to wait longer before receiving his first senior invitation.

His reaction to the call-up also showed just how significant the moment was for the youngster. James admitted that he became emotional after learning that he had been selected to join the Super Eagles.

“But I’m really happy to be here. For me personally, I actually cried. I can’t lie because I’ve been dreaming, you know, to play in the national team,” he revealed.

James also expressed his excitement at joining a squad containing several established Nigerian international stars.

“We have good players here, and to be among them, I’m really happy.”

The defender now has the opportunity to work alongside experienced members of the Super Eagles squad and learn from players who have already established themselves at international level.

His inclusion also represents an important step in his developing career, having earned recognition through his performances for Alverca. At just 22, James will be looking to use the opportunity to demonstrate that he can compete at the highest level and become a regular option for Nigeria in the future.

With the Super Eagles preparing for two important qualifying fixtures, James will hope to turn the emotional moment of receiving his first call-up into a strong start to his international career.

For the Alverca defender, what began as a long-held dream has now become reality, and he will be eager to make the most of his first experience with the senior national team.