Talented HNK Gorica striker to choose between Croatia's Vatreni and Nigeria's Super Eagles

Talented HNK Gorica forward Francis Chinedu Echue could spark a tug-of-war between Nigeria's Super Eagles and Croatia's Vatreni for his services, allnigeriasoccer.com reports.

Born in Zagreb to a Nigerian father, Chinedu is eligible to represent both Croatia, his country of birth, and Nigeria at international level. 

Widely regarded as one of the brightest prospects in Croatian football, the 2009-born striker has already begun to make his mark in the youth ranks.

The Croatian Football Federation currently lead the race for his services, having capped him at U15 and U16 level.

Chinedu made an immediate impact for the U15s, netting three goals in six appearances, including a memorable winner in a 2-1 victory over Morocco in May 2024. 

He followed that up with another decisive strike in a 3-2 triumph over England

Those performances earned him a swift promotion to the U16s, where he has continued to shine. 

In April 2025, he struck twice in a 5-0 win against Slovenia, marking his third appearance at that level. 

His progress has now been rewarded with a first call-up to Croatia's U17 squad for the upcoming friendlies against Sweden, Austria and Switzerland.

Despite his involvement with Croatia's youth teams, Chinedu’s international future remains open. 

Because he has not yet featured in a competitive fixture, Fifa regulations mean he could still pledge his allegiance to Nigeria without requiring a formal change of association.

The teenager will be carefully tracked as he nears a defining moment, choosing between continuing with Croatia or switching to Nigeria at senior level.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

Photo Credit: semafor.hns.family

Copyright ANS
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from allnigeriasoccer.com