Fooyballer, Ebenezer Akinsanmiro has reflected on his maiden invitation to the Super Eagles for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

Akinsanmiro was named in Super Eagles’ 28-man squad for the competition by head coach, Eric Chelle last week.

The 21-year-old who was previously a barber, has caught the eye with his impressive performances for Serie A club Pisa this season.

The midfielder said the invitation came to him as a surprise. “I was not expecting it to be honest, the first time I was contacted was during the World Cup qualifiers, but I was injured and couldn’t make it,” Akinsanmiro told the Super Eagles media.

“So, when this invitation came, I called someone close to me, I was actually shedding tears because it was a dream come true for me. I have been trying to play for the national team, from U-17 to U-20. Then, I felt maybe I was not good enough. I told myself I will keep pushing and doing my possible best, maybe one day the invitation will come.”

Akinsanmiro also spoke about his journey to stardom.

“My daddy inspired me, he was once a footballer, and my two brothers. They were footballers too. I took a lot of interest in the game while watching them play,” added Akinsanmiro.

“Then, there was a time I took a break from football to learn barbing. I’m a professional barber too. I must thank my father, and brothers for their support.”