Football
Exclusive: Victor Collins Carries NPFL’s Hopes into the Super Eagles’ AFCON Campaign
Victor Collins, Nasarawa United’s 24-year-old center-back, becomes the only NPFL player selected for Nigeria's AFCON qualifiers. As he joins the Super Eagles, Collins reflects on his journey and ambition to open doors for more NPFL talents
Image Credits: Victor Collins FB.
Victor Collins, Nasarawa United’s towering 24-year-old center-back, has broken through as the only Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) player to join the Super Eagles’ final 23-man squad.
With the national team preparing for the 2024 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers, Collins’ selection is a nod to his formidable presence in the domestic league and a beacon for other homegrown talents.
Coach Augustine Eguavoen's decision to include Collins ahead of the crucial matches against Benin Republic and Rwanda speaks volumes about the defender’s defensive prowess, discipline, and leadership.
Having shown impressive form with Nasarawa United this season, Collins is a standout with seven full-match appearances and a spotless disciplinary record.
Known for his physical presence and tactical intelligence, he has achieved a remarkable 85% pass accuracy, won 60% of his aerial duels, and maintained a clean sheet in three matches this season.
Now, on the cusp of making his Super Eagles debut, Collins opens up to SportsBoom.com about this new chapter and the journey that led him here.
A Call-Up Beyond Expectations
“Someone called me and told me he saw my name on the list; I thought it was a joke,” Collins recalls, still sounding a bit stunned.
“To my own surprise, I later confirmed it myself.”
His selection came as a pleasant shock.
I never saw it coming.
Victor Collins
An Overwhelming Outpour of Support
Since the announcement, Collins has felt the immense support of his coaches, teammates, family, and fans. “I don’t know of anyone who isn’t happy for me and how far I’ve come,” he shares, a hint of gratitude in his voice.
“Seeing the number of calls and congratulatory messages I’ve received, I believe everyone is happy for me about my selection, more so as the only NPFL player in the side.”
The NPFL: A Forge for Resilience and Readiness
Reflecting on his journey, Collins attributes his mental toughness to his experience in the NPFL. “My NPFL experience has built my mental strength to be ready for anything, most especially a big stage such as this.”
Prepared and determined, Collins is ready to make the most of this chance.
I’m ready to grab this opportunity with both hands.
Victor Collins
A New Chapter for NPFL Talent
Victor Collins’ selection is more than just a personal achievement; it signals a shift for NPFL talent in the national conversation.
As he joins the Super Eagles camp, he brings with him not only his skills but also the hopes of the NPFL players who aspire to wear the green and white.
Gbemidepo Popoola, is a freelance Sport Journalist with multiple years of experience in Writing, Reportage and Broadcasting. Gbemidepo's major concentration is telling the local Nigerian Sporting stories, in its own Unique way. This is because he believes, "no one, can tell our story better than ourselves".