Pulling on the green and white jersey for the first time tests even the most gifted Nigerian footballer's nerves and resolve.
Most debutants pray they don't embarrass themselves. But a rare breed seizes the moment immediately and cements their legacy forever.
Femi Azeez, a relatively unknown Millwall player, did exactly that on Tuesday, May 26, 2026. He scored twice in Nigeria's Unity Cup semi-final clash with Zimbabwe in London on his Super Eagles debut.
His brace made history in a remarkable way. Azeez became the first Nigerian player in 55 years to score two goals on debut for the national team.
Several other stars have announced themselves with goals in their first Super Eagles appearance. We've compiled a list of these instant heroes.
Akor Adams wore Sevilla's colours when he marked his debut. The Spanish-based striker netted just 18 minutes after coming on against Lesotho in a 2026 World Cup qualifier.
Joe Aribo was at Rangers when he made his international statement. He finished clinically against Ukraine in a September 2019 friendly match.
Paul Onuachu holds Nigeria's fastest debut goal record. He found the net after just 10 seconds against Egypt in March 2019, his first full appearance.
Brian Idowu replaced Ola Aina at half-time during a 2017 friendly in Russia. He scored in a memorable 4-2 victory over Argentina.
Ekigho Ehiosun stepped in as late replacement for Victor Anichebe against Sierra Leone. Playing for Warri Wolves at the time, he netted in a 2-1 friendly win in 2011.
Obafemi Martins was just 19 years old when he played for Inter Milan. He opened his international account against Ireland in the 2004 Unity Cup tournament, held in London.
Stephen Makinwa delivered exactly what Nigerian fans expected. His impressive Italian form preceded a debut goal against South Africa in the 2004 Nelson Mandela Challenge.
Femi Opabunmi had already won silverware at youth level. The ex-Golden Eaglets star netted in Nigeria's 3-0 friendly rout of Kenya in 2002.
Julius Aghahowa became famous for his trademark somersaults after scoring. He first demonstrated this at the 2000 Africa Cup of Nations against Morocco.
Finidi George set the bar incredibly high in November 1991. His debut against Burkina Faso included a goal and three assists for the senior team.
Mathias Obianika preceded Azeez's record by over five decades. The Enugu Rangers legend scored a brace against Burkina Faso in November 1971.
Obianika's legacy extended well beyond that match. He played a crucial role in Nigeria's gold medal triumph at the 1973 All Africa Games in Lagos.
