'It's Emotional' - But now Alebiosu must prove he belongs in Super Eagles at AFCON 2025

Blackburn Rovers defender Ryan Alebiosu has waited his whole life for this chance with Nigeria and the Super Eagles. 

But now, with an AFCON squad number in hand and Nigeria's biggest stars waiting in Morocco, the 23-year-old defender is living out a dream that feels almost surreal. But dreams alone won't keep him in the squad.

"Obviously I've always wanted to play for my nation, my country, so it's just, it's the best feeling right now so far," Alebiosu told Blackburn Rovers TV before linking up with the squad for a pre-tournament friendly against Egypt in Cairo. "It's emotional to me, it's big to me."

The emotion is understandable, but the reality is harsh: Alebiosu, one of five new faces in the latest Super Eagles team, is stepping into Ola Aina's shoes after the 2023 finalist was ruled out through injury. 

This isn't just an opportunity, it's a lifeline that may not come again. With Nigeria stacked with talent and competition fierce in every position, the Anglo-Nigerian knows this could be his only shot to prove he belongs at this level.

"Yeah, 100%, it's been a lot these last few months," he admitted. "I just believed in the staff, everyone backed me, and they've obviously helped me keep progressing and get to this point, so I'm just grateful for everyone in the club helping me to get to where I am and hopefully get beyond."

That gratitude must now translate into performance. Eric Chelle didn't call him up for sentiment, he needs a defender who can handle the pressure of facing Tanzania, Tunisia, and Uganda in Group C. 

If Alebiosu seizes this moment and delivers when it matters, he could cement his place in Nigeria's future. If he doesn't, the door may close as quickly as it opened. The dream is real, but now comes the hard part: making it last.