Super Eagles goalkeeper, Adebayo Adeleye, recently made his first appearance for the senior national team in a recent test game against Algeria in Constantine. The 22-year-old Hapoel Jerusalem goalie shares his experience and how Vincent Enyeama inspired.
It was a dream come true for me because I was keen to show the coaches they were not wrong in inviting me. I’m happy with the minutes I had against Algeria because it made me realise my dreams. I’m also happy with the coaches, who believed in me, to see it happen.
It was a tough and exciting experience for me. I am happy to be part of this great team, but I’m not here to make up the numbers. It’s a very big one for me and I am giving it my best shot and see how it goes. I got a chance against the Algerian second-string side and hopefully more will come. For now, I’m just happy to make my debut for my country.
I believe I will get my chance on the big stage to show what I can do. My main aim is to help the team qualify for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations. I also try to train hard to convince the coaches to consider me as a first-choice goalkeeper in the future.
Not at all, but I felt a bit bad I conceded a goal on my debut even if it was from the penalty spot. I love keeping clean sheets, which I feel helps my team win games. I’m looking forward to doing that with the Eagles, as I have done with my team in Israel.
You are Nigeria’s keeper with the highest number of clean sheet in Europe from last season. How does this make you feel?
I feel great, but that is not enough. I still have to prove myself with the Eagles and that is why I’m working harder to ensure that I get a chance to show that.
What does Eagles keepers trainer Ike Shorunmu tell you on and off the pitch?
The conversation with him is very easy; on a day-to-day basis, he is totally accessible to the players. Personally, I notice the affection and confidence he has in me. Obviously, I want to play more. It’s true that he’s choosing other teammates (Maduka Okoye and Francis Uzoho) and that’s what I’m trying to change in my day-to-day training when I get the chance. I want to play for the Eagles and that’s what I train and prepare for.
Portugal Match it’s going to be a tough game in Lisbon. I believe we have what it takes to hold our own against any team. I look forward to that game and hope that I play a part in it because those are the kind of games I love to feature in.
I’m alot better keeper now, When I analyse myself and watch videos of my games from years ago, I notice the difference in how I feel on the pitch now. I control all the facets better, I have more experience, I am more involved and have improved my understanding of the game.
I watched so many goalkeepers growing up, but I think the likes of Vincent Enyeama, Peter Rufai, Ike Shorunmu and Dosu Joseph have been exemplary. I hope to achieve even more than they did with the Eagles, but I have to start playing first to realise that dream.
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