Tolu Arokodare’s journey from a promising striker to an emotional debutant for the Nigerian national team is a testament to his dedication, perseverance, and the unwavering support of his family. His story unfolds like a compelling narrative, highlighting the power of dreams, the significance of national pride, and the unwavering pursuit of excellence. Arokodare’s remarkable season with Genk, punctuated by a flurry of goals and assists, served as the perfect prelude to his international call-up, a moment that would forever etch itself in his memory.
The 2023-24 season witnessed Arokodare’s emergence as a potent attacking force for Genk. His prolific goal-scoring ability and creative playmaking saw him amass an impressive tally of 20 goals and seven assists in 36 appearances across all competitions. This remarkable performance caught the eye of Super Eagles coach Jose Peseiro, who recognized Arokodare’s potential and included him in the 23-man squad for the crucial 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe. This call-up marked a significant milestone in Arokodare’s career, signifying his arrival on the international stage and offering him the opportunity to represent his nation on the grandest platform.
Arokodare’s debut for the Super Eagles against Rwanda, though not as a starter, was a moment laden with emotion and significance. Stepping onto the field in the 76th minute, replacing Victor Osimhen, Arokodare experienced a surge of emotions that culminated in tears of joy and pride. This emotional outpouring, captured in a video shared by teammate Victor Boniface, underscored the profound impact of the moment on Arokodare. It was the realization of a lifelong dream, a culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and the unwavering belief in his abilities. While the match against Zimbabwe ended in a 1-1 draw, the experience of representing his country remained an indelible memory for Arokodare.
Returning to Genk after his international duty, Arokodare continued his impressive form, scoring in a resounding 4-0 victory against Gent in the Belgian Jupiler Pro League playoffs. This goal served as a reaffirmation of his prowess and further solidified his importance to the team. Genk, aiming to reclaim the league title they last won in 2019, relied heavily on Arokodare’s contributions in their quest for championship glory. His consistent performances throughout the season made him a key figure in Genk’s campaign, and his goal against Gent further fueled their title aspirations.
In a candid interview following his international debut, Arokodare opened up about the emotional rollercoaster he experienced. He spoke of the overwhelming sense of pride and accomplishment in representing his country, a dream shared by every aspiring footballer. He also acknowledged the profound influence of his father, expressing the joy of sharing this momentous occasion with him, particularly as it was the first time his father had witnessed him play professionally in Nigeria. The interview offered a glimpse into Arokodare’s personal journey, revealing the deep-seated emotional connection he shared with his family and the significance of their support in his rise to prominence.
Beyond the personal triumph, Arokodare’s experience with the Super Eagles also represented a significant learning opportunity. Training alongside established players whom he admired and followed on social media and watched in the Premier League provided him with invaluable insights and inspiration. This exposure to a higher level of competition served as a catalyst for his own development, motivating him to further refine his skills and strive for even greater heights in his career. The experience with the national team not only boosted his confidence but also broadened his perspective on the game, enriching his understanding of tactics, teamwork, and the demands of playing at the highest level. Looking ahead, Arokodare’s continued fine form with Genk could pave the way for another call-up to the Super Eagles in June, further solidifying his place within the national team setup and offering him more opportunities to contribute to their success on the international stage.
