Isaac James Reveals He Cried After Receiving First Super Eagles Call-Up

Isaac James says his first call up to the Super Eagles caught him completely off guard, even though playing for Nigeria has always been a dream of his.

The Alverca defender is one of three uncapped players brought into Eric Chelle's squad for the upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau, alongside forwards Moses Usor and George Ilenikhena.

James admitted he had been in good form for his club but never thought a Nigeria call up would come this fast.

"I was doing good at the start of the season, but I didn't expect to get a call-up immediately. I know it is my dream to be in the national team," James told the Super Eagles media.

"When the coach called me, I was so surprised. I didn't expect it. I was happy," he added.

The 22 year old also opened up about how emotional the moment was for him once the news sank in.

"I must confess, I cried. I have been dreaming of playing for the national team. We have good players here, and to be among them, I'm very happy," he said.

James said the news spread fast once it became public, with friends and family reaching out to check if it was really true.

"Actually, I started seeing a lot of posts about it. My brothers and sisters started sending me posts. They were like, 'Is it true? You are going to the national team?' I told them it was real," he said.

He also revealed how proud his club was to see one of their own get the call. "My club was also happy. I think I'm the first Nigerian guy from the club to be called up to the national team. Everyone was happy. I got a lot of calls," James said.