Heartbreak for Super Eagles as Chelsea star no longer eligible to represent Nigeria

Heartbreak for Super Eagles as Chelsea star no longer eligible to represent Nigeria

Hassan Abdulsalam 13:43 - 11.09.2024

Madueke assisted Harry Kane in scoring his second goal during his 100th cap for England.

Chelsea winger Noni Madueke is no longer eligible to represent Nigeria after making his debut for England against Finland on Tuesday night.

Madueke's England debut ends Nigeria's Eligibility

Madueke's England debut ends Nigeria's Eligibility

Chukwunonso Tristan "Noni" Madueke, who was included in England's squad for the Nations League fixtures against Ireland and Finland, came on as a substitute in the 66th minute of the match against Finland.

Chelsea's Noni Madueke set to dump Nigeria for England.
Chelsea's Noni Madueke set to dump Nigeria for England.

Madueke replaced Arsenal's Bukayo Saka in the second half in London, making an immediate impact by assisting Harry Kane in scoring his second goal during Kane's 100th cap for England.

After receiving the ball from Liverpool's Trent Alexander-Arnold on the right, Madueke cut it back to Kane, who expertly finished to secure the victory for the Three Lions.

"It was great to make my first appearance for the national team and I am proud of myself," the Chelsea winger reflected on his England debut.

The 22-year-old's impressive start to the 2024/2025 season, which included a hat-trick against Wolves and a goal in the UEFA Conference League, earned him a call-up to the England squad.

Noni Madueke of Chelsea | IMAGO

With his appearance for England, Madueke has officially switched his international allegiance and will no longer be available for selection by the Super Eagles.

Madueke and England

Noni, a 22-year-old born in London, has represented England at several youth levels, including the U-17, U-18, and U-21 teams.

Madueke's England debut ends Nigeria's Eligibility
Madueke's England debut ends Nigeria's Eligibility

He has scored goals and appeared in major tournaments like the UEFA European Under-17 Championship and the UEFA European Under-21 Championship.

Madueke's England debut ends Nigeria's Eligibility
Madueke's England debut ends Nigeria's Eligibility

In August 2024, Madueke received his first call-up to the England senior team. He made his debut against Finland, coming on as a substitute and assisting on a goal.

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