Jordan Tornalija, who previously played for the German youth national team, recently made his debut for the Super Eagles national team
KAA Gent star Jordan Tornalija has revealed why he was initially reluctant about Gernot Rohr’s play-calling for the Super Eagles, Soccernet.ng reported.
Lohr, who is currently the technical advisor to the Benin national team, led the Super Eagles squad from 2016 until he was sacked by the Nigeria Football Association in 2021.
During his time as head coach, he reportedly tried to recruit Tornalija, who was wearing the colors of the German youth national team at the time.
Roger, who invited the German-Nigerian defender to strengthen his squad during the 2018 World Cup, did not hide his disappointment.
“It’s a shame because I would have had a great opportunity to play in the World Cup if I had been interested.”
“I have followed his progress and believe he would have made a positive contribution to the team. But we now really respect this kid’s decision and I have to wish him the best of luck,” he told BBC Sport.
Torunarigha spoke to Soccernet.ng Editor-in-Chief Lolade Adewuyi and explained his previous reluctance.
“It was difficult for me because my parents are from Nigeria, but I had never been to Nigeria. I didn’t know what the people were like, what the country was like, and I It’s a little difficult for ,” he said.
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However, his views changed and he expressed his desire to play for the Super Eagles.
Later, I received an invitation from Jose Peseiro to join the Nigeria national team.
Although he did not play in the 6-0 win against Sao Tome and Principe or the 2-2 draw against Saudi Arabia, he made his international debut in the 3-2 win against Mozambique. His team celebrated on social media and his platforms after playing 74 minutes.
Soccernet.ng has learned that Peceiro was instrumental in convincing the Nigerian centre-back to switch allegiance after visiting Belgium to watch Tornalija and Gifugu Orban play.
After the visit, the Portuguese coach sent an invitation, and Tornalija decided to apply for a change of nationality to FIFA.
Tornarija is expected to continue to make a key contribution as Nigeria’s Super Eagles prepare for their next home game against Lesotho in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
