Usor scored the winning goal on his debut as Nigeria defeated Madagascar 2-1 in their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying opener in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital.
The 24-year-old said that Moses Simon, who plies his trade with Ligue 1 club Paris FC, encouraged him to play without fear shortly before they took the pitch together.
“He was telling me just play your game and be yourself,” Usor said. “If you have the ball, you want to go one-on-one, you go, you take the risk.”
Usor said he took the advice into the game, describing football as a sport built around taking risks.
The winger admitted that scoring on his international debut was difficult to comprehend, particularly with his family watching from the stands.
“I was still surprised to see this is a dream because me playing at this level, I think it's a big dream,” he said.
Usor added that he followed his usual routine of kneeling to pray after scoring, but the presence of his family made the occasion more emotional.
The LASK player also expressed his delight at sharing the Super Eagles dressing room with players he had previously dreamed of playing alongside.
“It’s a different feeling,” he said.
With Nigeria preparing for their next Group L qualifier, Usor said he understands that his debut goal has raised expectations.
“Very, very important because I know Nigeria will be expecting much from me, but I just have to put my best whenever I’m there,” he said.
Discussion0