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Soccer News of Wednesday, 23 September 2020

Source: www.mynigeria.com

Revealed: How Rohr convinced Akpoguma to choose Nigeria over Germany

Kevin Akpoguma was born to a German mother and a Nigerian father Kevin Akpoguma was born to a German mother and a Nigerian father

Technical Adviser for the Super Eagles, Gernot Rohr has revealed how he managed to convince German born soccer star, Kevin Akpoguma to ply his trade for his fatherland, Nigeria.

Born to a German mother and a Nigerian father, Akpoguma is eligible to play for the Nigeria and Germany at the senior level. He has represented Germany at youth level, playing for the U16, U17, U18, U19, U20, and U21 teams.

He was the captain of the German U-20 National, helping the team reach the quarterfinals of the 2015 FIFA U-20 World Cup in New Zealand.

Despite his commitment to the German teams, Rohr is delighted the Hoffenheim defender yielded to his advice and pledged his international future to Nigeria.

“After the matches, we met and could talk. I presented our projects and I could speak about the team, about this incredible period in the Super Eagles and my vision for the team.

“He was sold on this and would love to be a part of the team and play in big international competitions like the Africa Cup of Nations or even the World Cup.”

Akpoguma is now expected to challenge Kenneth Omeruo, Leon Balogun, William Troost-Ekong and Semi Ajayi for a place in Super Eagles defender, Brila.net reports.

He will be available for selection after his clearance by the World Football Governing Body FIFA.