'I've never played that position before' - Super Eagles new star Azeez admits after historic brace

Femi Azeez announced himself on the international stage in stunning fashion on Tuesday night, scoring twice on his Super Eagles debut as Nigeria defeated Zimbabwe 2-0 in the Unity Cup semifinals at The Valley.

The Millwall forward found the net in each half to guide Nigeria comfortably into the final, capping off a memorable first appearance in national colours.

In doing so, Azeez became the first Nigerian player this millennium to score a brace on his Super Eagles debut.

Reacting to his historic brace, the Super Eagles number 7 told a Nigerian reporter at the Valley: "I didn’t know that. It’s a good feeling, I guess. It’s an honour."

The 24-year-old needed less than five minutes to settle into the game before opening the scoring, showing composure to slot home after he was fed by Terem Moffi.

Asked about adapting so quickly and making such an immediate impact, Azeez credited the freedom given to the attacking players by manager Eric Chelle.

"It was the excitement, comfort, and expression. The coach gave us the freedom in the final third to do what we want and express ourselves. That’s why we’re here.

"When the ball went to Moffi and he passed it back to me, I saw the opening and went for it. I didn’t think twice."

Azeez’s performance drew comparisons to Ademola Lookman, particularly with the way he operated just behind the two strikers.

However, the forward admitted that it was actually an unfamiliar role for him.

"I've never played that position before, to be honest. But I've had a few days of training there and I've really enjoyed it.

"The management and coaching staff helped me feel my way into the role. As soon as I touched the ball, I was aware of my surroundings and I was able to show what I could do. I enjoyed it a lot."

Azeez arrives on the international scene after an impressive domestic campaign in England, where he was named in the Championship Team of the Season, although Millwall narrowly missing out on Premier League promotion.

Following his dazzling debut, the attacker admitted he may not yet be prepared for the level of attention now coming his way from Nigerian fans around the world.

"Probably not. I’m not prepared for it, to be honest. I've probably got loads of notifications on my phone

"I’ll just have to sift through them, but I guess that’s why we’re here. I want to represent this country and do as well as I can. Playing in front of these fans is incredible."

Nigeria coach Eric Chelle now faces a decision ahead of next week's friendly against Poland, whether to include Azeez in his travelling squad to Warsaw following the forward's impressive debut display.