Kevin Akpoguma, the 29-year-old defender currently playing for Hoffenheim in Germany, is eager to make a return to the Nigerian national team, the Super Eagles, after an absence of 15 months. His last appearance for the team dates back to June 18, 2023, during an Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match against Sierra Leone. In that game, Nigeria secured a 3-2 win, with Akpoguma contributing as a substitute in the 71st minute, replacing Bright Osayi-Samuel. His teammates, Victor Osimhen and Kelechi Iheanacho, played crucial roles in securing the result with their goals.
This season, Akpoguma has been in excellent form for Hoffenheim, having started all eight Bundesliga matches leading up to their home game against St Pauli. His consistent performances in one of Europe’s top leagues underline his readiness for international competition, and he is keen to leverage this momentum to earn a recall to the Super Eagles. Akpoguma’s desire to return is amplified by the fact that Nigeria is set to play crucial remaining matches against Benin Republic and Rwanda later this month as part of their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualification series.
Expressing his commitment to the national team, Akpoguma remarked on the situation surrounding his absence from the Super Eagles since 2023. He acknowledged that he has not been selected recently but remains available and willing to contribute when called upon by the coach, Augustine Eguavoen. With a total of eight caps since making his debut on October 9, 2020, in a friendly match against Algeria, Akpoguma aims to add to his national team experience and leave a mark on the squad.
Born in Neustadt an der Weinstraße, Germany, to a German mother and a Nigerian father, Akpoguma had the option to play for either country. Having represented Germany at various youth levels—from U16 to U21—he ultimately chose to align himself with Nigeria after his youth experiences, including captaining the U-20 team to the quarterfinals of the 2015 FIFA U-20 World Cup in New Zealand. This decision reflects his commitment to connect with his Nigerian heritage and contribute to the growth of Nigerian football.
With the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations on the horizon, Akpoguma’s longing for a return to the Super Eagles may come at a pivotal time. The national team’s management and the coach are likely assessing player performance closely, and Akpoguma’s current form in the Bundesliga may enhance his chances of being included in the squad for the upcoming fixtures against Benin and Rwanda. As the competition heats up, he is hopeful that his dedication and performance will warrant selection to help Nigeria on their path to qualification.
In conclusion, Kevin Akpoguma’s story illustrates a player in pursuit of redemption and opportunity to represent his country once more on the international stage. Having developed his skills in Germany and now flourishing in the Bundesliga, he is not only eager but also prepared to make a significant impact for the Super Eagles. His journey from a youth international with Germany to a hopeful Super Eagles player encapsulates the narratives of many athletes balancing national identity and international ambitions in the world of sports.
