AFCON 2025
Super Eagles striker Tolu Arokodare has reacted to the need to replicate his form at club level in the national team ahead of the crucial Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Tanzania.
The Ajax Amsterdam striker sat with Eric Chelle in Thursday’s press conference as they responded to questions from the media in the build-up to the match.
When asked why he has struggled to replicate his club form at the Super Eagles level, Arokodare told journalists he gives his best regardless of whether he scores or not. He added that he helps his teammates improve in training, as they do the same for him.
The 25-year-old striker also spoke about the disparity in style of play and the dynamism at the club and national team level.
“I am having a very good start at Ajax. I have not really scored as much with the Super Eagles. I think it is fair to say that I have done my part whether I am playing or not. The goals have not been coming as much as I wanted, but I have to keep working, staying patient, and being positive, hoping that I will be able to replicate what I do for my club.”
Arokodare is currently on loan at Ajax Amsterdam in the Dutch Eredivisie and has had a brilliant start to the season with 13 goals in 17 matches, and he’s currently on a five-match scoring streak.
In the absence of the injured Victor Osimhen, Tolu, Arokodare, Akor Adams and Taiwo Awoniyi are Eric Chelle’s options in the number 9 role against Tanzania.
Arokodare will be hoping to add to his two-goal tally with the Super Eagles as he hopes to register his 13th appearance for the Super Eagles since he made his debut in a 2-0 away win over Rwanda in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier in Kigali.
