Uganda international forward Uche Ikpeazu has spoken candidly about his decision to represent the Cranes instead of Nigeria’s Super Eagles, admitting that fierce competition in the Nigerian attack played a decisive role.
The 30-year-old striker, who recently made his senior international debut for Uganda, addressed his international future while speaking ahead of Uganda’s Group C encounter with Nigeria.
Ikpeazu, who has featured for clubs including Blackpool, Cardiff City and St Johnstone, acknowledged that breaking into Nigeria’s star-studded forward line would have been a major challenge.
“When you’ve got strikers like Osimhen in your position, I think it’s pretty obvious,” Ikpeazu said, referencing Napoli and Super Eagles talisman Victor Osimhen.
Ikpeazu revealed that representing Nigeria was a possibility earlier in his career, but believes his journey ultimately unfolded as it was meant to.
“There were earlier stages in my career where Nigeria was an option, but I think God’s timing is the best,” he explained.
Now fully committed to Uganda, the striker described playing for the Cranes as both natural and meaningful, stressing his pride in representing the East African nation.
“I’m here playing for Uganda it’s my country as well and I enjoy playing for Uganda,” he added.
Uganda’s meeting with Nigeria adds extra intrigue for Ikpeazu, who will come up against a Super Eagles side he once considered joining.
The fixture offers the forward a chance to test himself against one of Africa’s strongest teams, led by the very striker he cited as a key factor in his international decision.
