Super Eagles defender Igoh Ogbu in an exclusive interview with Footy-Africa has stated that Nigeria are determined to retain the Unity Cup title after booking their place in the final with an impressive victory over Zimbabwe at The Valley, home of Charlton Athletic.
Speaking exclusively to Footy-Africa after the game, Ogbu admitted the match was tougher than the scoreline suggested but praised the team’s effort and mentality.
“It was a very tough game, especially in the second half, but we thank God for the victory. It was not easy at all,” Ogbu said. “It went well in the end. The boys did well, they pushed hard and now we have to enjoy the win and focus on the next game.”
FULL TIME! 🇳🇬🦅
We advance to the final of the #unitycup pic.twitter.com/aJsCyerefq
— 🇳🇬 Super Eagles (@NGSuperEagles) May 26, 2026
“We have to keep our heads straight, keep working hard and continue doing our best because it is a privilege to play for Nigeria. Now that we are in the final, we understand what we need to do. We will recover and prepare well because the reason we came here is to win and retain the title.”
Nigeria defeated Zimbabwe 2-0 in Thursday’s semi-final thanks to a brace from debutant Femi Azeez, who scored once in each half to hand the Super Eagles a deserved win.
The result sends Nigeria into the final where they will face either Jamaica or India, who meet in the second semi-final later this week.
Ogbu, who recently enjoyed a strong season with Slavia Prague, produced a commanding display at the heart of Nigeria’s defence as the Super Eagles secured a clean sheet in a side filled with several debutants and new faces.
Nigeria made a fast start and took the lead in the sixth minute when Millwall winger Azeez finished off a flowing attacking move with a composed strike beyond the Zimbabwe goalkeeper.
Femi A Z E EZ ⚽️⚽️ with a brace pic.twitter.com/gFek1X96O3
— 🇳🇬 Super Eagles (@NGSuperEagles) May 26, 2026
The Super Eagles remained dangerous on the counter and doubled their advantage later in the game after captain for the day Terem Moffi led a quick break before squaring the ball for Azeez to tap home his second goal of the night.
