AFCON 2025: ‘I take pride in being here’ - Dessers pleased to be called up for the Super Eagles

Dessers' inclusion follows a stellar campaign last season where he finished as the top scorer in the Scottish Premiership, netting 18 goals in 35 games. 

This prolific form secured him a summer transfer to Greek powerhouse Panathinaikos, where he scored on his debut against Olympiacos before an injury temporarily sidelined him.

His performance this season has led to him being chosen by head coach Eric Chelle for the AFCON tournament, which began on Sunday.

In an interview with Cali Sport, the forward acknowledged the intense competition for a spot in the Super Eagles' attack and expressed his gratitude for the opportunity.

"It's been a dream for many years to go to a big tournament with the Super Eagles," Dessers stated. 

"There have been a lot of quality strikers in the past years and even now, so many Nigerian strikers are doing well all over Europe and Africa, so I take pride in being here."

The former Rangers and Feyenoord player believes his consistent form in European club football over recent seasons was the deciding factor in securing his place, given the depth of talent available to the national team.

"I think it is based on the consistency I showed in the last years," he added. "It is a proud moment for me and my family."

With the Super Eagles set to kick off their AFCON 2025 campaign against Tanzania on Tuesday, Dessers will be eager to prove his fitness and contribute to a winning start for Nigeria.