Moses Usor has arrived at his first Super Eagles assignment with a clear intention: to translate his club form into a meaningful contribution for Nigeria in the opening matches of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign.
The LASK forward is among three players receiving their maiden senior invitations from head coach Éric Chelle, alongside Al Ittihad striker George Ilenikhena and Alverca defender Isaac James. The Nigeria Football Federation confirmed the trio’s inclusion in the 24-man squad for the qualifiers against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau.
Usor’s opportunity comes after a productive period with LASK in Austria. The 24-year-old was part of the side that completed a domestic league and cup double during the 2025/26 season, helping raise his profile ahead of his first senior international call-up.
The forward had previously been invited to the national team setup for the 2026 Unity Cup but was unable to participate after suffering an injury. His return to contention has now given him another opportunity to establish himself within the Super Eagles setup.
Speaking about his approach to the latest invitation, Usor said he intends to offer qualities that can add another dimension to Nigeria’s attack.
He identified his pace and direct style of play as important attributes he hopes to bring to the team, while also stressing his willingness to adapt to whatever role Chelle assigns him.
“I hold tremendous respect for each of them. My objective is to contribute my distinctive strengths, my pace and incisive play, while supporting the team’s objectives,” Usor said.
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The LASK attacker also promised full commitment regardless of the position he is asked to occupy during the qualifiers.
His comments come as Nigeria prepares for two matches within four days, beginning with Madagascar at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Friday, September 25. The Super Eagles will then travel to Bissau for their meeting with Guinea-Bissau on September 29.
Usor has already joined the squad in camp, with the Super Eagles beginning preparations for the qualifying campaign in Akwa Ibom. He was among the players who reported early as Chelle started assembling his squad. ([Premium Times Nigeria][4])
The forward is expected to face competition for playing time from established attackers including Ademola Lookman, Moses Simon, Samuel Chukwueze and Tolu Arokodare.
Rather than viewing that competition as a setback, Usor has expressed respect for his fellow forwards while concentrating on what he can contribute when given an opportunity.
His first international assignment also comes with an opportunity to make an immediate impression on the coaching staff. A strong showing could increase his chances of remaining involved in subsequent national team selections, although his immediate focus remains on the two qualifiers.
Nigeria enters the campaign in Group L alongside Madagascar, Guinea-Bissau and co-hosts Tanzania. With the latter already guaranteed a place at the 2027 tournament, the remaining teams will compete for qualification from the group.
For Usor, however, the immediate objective is more personal: making the most of a long-awaited Super Eagles opportunity and demonstrating that his qualities can translate from Austrian club football to the international stage.
The LASK forward has described the call-up as a significant moment after overcoming the disappointment of his previous injury setback.
Now, with his first competitive opportunity approaching, Usor will be hoping his pace, direct running and attacking energy can provide Nigeria with another option as the Super Eagles begin their route towards AFCON 2027.
