Remo Stars goalkeeper Kayode Bankole is determined to fight for a place in the Nigeria national team after earning his debut invite.
The 22-year-old shot stopper, who plies his trade for Remo Stars is one of the two home-based players included in coach Eric Chelle’s 23-man squad for the crucial 2026 World Cup qualifying games against Rwanda and Zimbabwe.
Kayode’s call-up makes him the first home-based goalkeeper in nearly two decades to push for a starting spot in a competitive Super Eagles match.
With Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali (Chippa United) and Tanzania-based Amas Obasogie also in the squad, Kayode faces a battle for the starting position.
However, the Remo Stars goalkeeper remains determined to prove himself.
“If I’m selected to play, I’ll give my best. The coach has the final decision, but I’m ready to fight for my place,” he said.
Nigeria faces a tough challenge in Group C, where Rwanda currently leads the standings. The Super Eagles will play the Amavubi in Kigali on March 21, before hosting Zimbabwe in Uyo on March 25.
With their World Cup qualification hopes on the line, Chelle’s squad will need to secure maximum points to stay in contention for a place at the global tournament.
