Rivers Plate Striker, Asuzu Hails NFF For National Team Invitation

Argentina-based striker Jonathan Asuzu has described his invitation to Nigeria’s U-20 national team as a dream come true.

The Rivers Plate forward expressed gratitude to the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and the Federal Government for their efforts in supporting young talents.

In a letter dated 8 August 2025, and signed by NFF General Secretary Mohammed Sani Maikano, Asuzu was officially invited to join the final phase of camping ahead of the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile.

Speaking at a press conference in Abuja, the 18-year-old striker said wearing the green and white jersey was an honour he had longed for since childhood.

“To represent my country on an international stage is an aspiration I have nurtured since I was a boy,” Asuzu said. “This invitation is not just an opportunity; it is a dream come true.”

He, however, disclosed that he was unable to join his teammates in camp due to an expired Nigerian passport.

Despite efforts to renew the travel document, Asuzu said he could not complete the process within FIFA’s stipulated timeline.

“It is with great sadness that I cannot be with my teammates at this important time,” he said. “But I will continue to support them and pray for their success.”

The striker encouraged fellow young players to remain focused and resilient, stressing that setbacks should be turned into opportunities for comebacks.

He also praised the energy of Nigerian youth, saying their spirit fuels his passion to excel.

Asuzu singled out Dr Raymond Edoh for playing a key role in facilitating his invitation, thanking him for his advocacy and support.

The player also paid tribute to his family, especially his father, for standing by him in pursuit of his footballing dreams.

His father, Godwin Asuzu, expressed appreciation to the NFF and the government for giving his son the chance to represent Nigeria.

The striker concluded by pledging to honour the legacy of past Nigerian footballers and to work diligently towards contributing to the nation’s football success.

“I look forward to the day when we can lift the trophy together and make our country proud,” he said.