After missing out on playing for the U17 and U20 national teams, Divine Nwachukwu has found divine intervention that has opened the doors to the national team to him again.
The Bendel Insurance midfielder was named in the 23-man roster of the super eagles for the AFCON 2023 qualifier against Sierra Leone.
DIvine Nwachukwu: Origin
Divine began his football journey with the national U15 team as a forward, leading them to the African Youth Games in Morocco.
Playing and captaining the national U15 team, the Future Eagles Divine looks to be on a path of national dominance.
During his time with the Future Eagles, Tobi Adepoju, the media officer, explains the endearing qualities of Divine, even from that age group.
“Divine was a focused boy, calm and always ready to work and train. He is one player you can easily communicate with. I think the coaches also find him one of the best-behaved players in our camp.”
A few months after graduating, the talent failed to shine through, as he didn’t make the U17 team. In subsequent years, he also couldn’t make the national U20 despite several attempts.
A Difficult Journey On a Road Less Travelled
Divine has been one of the best midfielders in the NPFL this season. He has scored three goals in four games in Lagos.
Before getting to that level, he had a difficult choice: Wait for the European deal or take a chance with the Nigerian league.
“I am happy to play in our league, at least the world gets to see me play. I have missed out on so many national teams, but now I can play and show myself to the world. It’s an amazing feeling, and I am happy to be part of it.”
Unlike many of his contemporaries still waiting on the European deal, Tobi feels his decision will help upcoming youngsters.
“I am proud of him because he took the difficult route and listened to advice to play in the domestic league, the coaches will be proud of him as well. When I was with the Future Eagles, I will advise the players not to be desperate and jump on any deals abroad. They could play at home and get a better deal abroad. I hope his mates still roaming in the Academies will see Divine journey as a motivation.”
The Super Eagles opportunity is here for Divine, and he is happy to show the world his talent. A chance in a super eagles team lacking talent in attacking midfield might be the chance Divine needs.
“It’s an amazing feeling for me. When I first heard the news, I thought it was a joke. For me to be called up in the midst of great players into the super eagles, well, what can I say, it’s an amazing feeling”.
Glad to have made it to the national team @NGSuperEagles squad for the AFCON qualifying match against Sierra Leone.
Thanks to my people at @BendelInsurance, my family, and fans worldwide.
Let’s keep flying together.
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— Nwachukwu Divine (@Divineho17) June 9, 2023