'Pretty simple and basic' - Arokodare reveals Super Eagles know what to in first game under Chelle

Tolu Arokodare has heaped praise on Super Eagles manager Eric Chelle, describing him as a coach with a clear plan and ideology ahead of Nigeria’s crucial clash against Rwanda in Kigali.

Speaking to Nigerian reporters in Kigali, Arokodare expressed his excitement about receiving an invitation to represent Nigeria. 

The Racing Genk striker, who is eager to feature against the Amavubi, believes his call-up is a result of his impressive form at club level.

"It feels good to have a good time in my homeland, where my own people, my loved ones, my family, my friends, and the ones I am yet to know can finally hopefully see me score for my country. So it is good and amazing," Arokodare said.

"I feel like my hard work has been rewarded. I feel like it couldn't have come at a better time, I feel like it is the best time for it to come. 

"I feel like I am ready mentally and physically and whatever challenge comes my way I feel like I am ready for it."

The 24-year-old forward has been in sensational form, leading the Belgian Pro League scoring charts with 17 goals and providing five assists in 30 league games. 

His performances have cemented his place as one of Nigeria’s most in-form strikers.

Arokodare also highlighted the team's focus and determination to secure maximum points against Rwanda.

"Well. We all stay in camp and confident because we know the quality we possess. We are just staying calm without putting ourselves under any pressure. 

"We are going to go to the game and play our football and hopefully get the win. We are not trying to listen to outsiders, we're trying to focus on ourselves."

He further praised the impact of new head coach Eric Chelle, who has instilled belief in the squad during their training sessions in Kigali.

"The coach is coming with a lot of confidence and has shown us how much he's confident in us and that's a huge boost and that's a huge boost for us. 

"Very confident he is a coach with a plan and a coach who knows what he wants and how he wants to play.

"When you're playing under a coach like that, you know what you have to do. It is pretty simple and basic."

Arokodare also acknowledged the importance of maintaining his form to earn future call-ups to the national team.

"I would love to be called up every time but at the same time I know it is not by what I have done before but what I am doing currently."

Currently sitting fifth in Group C with three points, Nigeria must secure a victory against Rwanda to revive its hopes of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Adeyemi Adewale

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