'An honour to play for Nigeria' - Tri-national forward Azeez says ahead of Unity Cup final

Tri-national forward Femi Azeez has revealed that staying calm before kick-off played a major role in his stunning two-goal performance against Zimbabwe in the Unity Cup semi-final.

Born in London, Azeez is eligible to represent his country of birth England, as well as the Super Eagles and La Roja through his father and mother respectively.

The Millwall forward announced himself on the international stage in spectacular fashion, scoring twice as Nigeria secured a comfortable 2-0 victory over Zimbabwe at The Valley in London to book a place in the final of the 2026 Unity Cup.

Azeez, who was making his first appearance for the three-time African champions, looked composed throughout the encounter and admitted after the game that he approached the occasion with confidence and freedom despite the pressure surrounding his debut.

"It was a good game, you know, 2-0. We played well, so hopefully more tomorrow," Azeez told Proudly Austin.

Asked about the inspiration behind his memorable debut and his brace for the Super Eagles, the 24-year-old explained that representing Nigeria gave him extra motivation to perform on the big stage.

"It's an honor to play for Nigeria, so I thought let me show what I can do. I was relaxed before the game. And yeah, and I was lucky enough to get two goals."

The former Reading player also expressed confidence ahead of Nigeria’s Unity Cup final clash against Jamaica, stating that the team will maintain their attacking approach as they look to secure the trophy under head coach Eric Chelle.

On what to expect against Jamaica, Azeez stated: "Hopefully more of the same, more attacking, freedom, and hopefully we win the trophy."

Azeez opened the scoring early in the contest before adding his second goal shortly after the hour mark to complete a dream debut for the London-born player.

The impressive display also earned praise from his club side, Millwall, while Chelle acknowledged the winger’s attacking quality despite insisting there is still room for tactical improvement in his overall game.

Nigeria, the defending champions of the Unity Cup, advanced to the final following the victory as Chelle’s rebuilt squad continued to impress in the four-nation tournament being staged in London.