FC Dallas defender, Osaze Urhoghide, has officially committed his international future to Nigeria, ending years of speculation about where his senior allegiance would lie. The 24-year-old, who was born in Rotterdam, Netherlands, and raised in England, had long been eligible to represent three countries—Netherlands, England, and Nigeria—but has now chosen to don the green and white of the Super Eagles.
Urhoghide had his first taste of international opportunity in 2019 when he received a call-up to Nigeria's U23 side for the Olympic qualifiers against Libya. However, due to an unfortunate injury, he was unable to make an appearance under the then-coach, Imama Amapakabo. Since that setback, his involvement with the national team had remained in limbo, with many uncertain about whether he would eventually play for Nigeria or opt for one of his other eligible nations.
In a recent interview reported by The Punch, Urhoghide put all doubts to rest by publicly declaring his decision. “I am ready to play for my fatherland, Nigeria. I have informed family members of my readiness to play for the Eagles. I am also using this opportunity to let the Nigeria Football Federation know that I am ready,” he said. This declaration has been met with excitement among Nigerian football fans, who are eager to see the talented defender bolster the national team's backline.
Following a stint with Scottish giants Celtic, which concluded in 2023, Urhoghide transferred to French Ligue 2 side Amiens. During his time in France, he was a standout performer, making 41 appearances and scoring three goals. His consistent performances at Amiens attracted attention from overseas, culminating in a record-breaking move to Major League Soccer club FC Dallas in February 2025. The transfer made him the most expensive defensive signing in the club's history.
Since joining FC Dallas, Urhoghide has seamlessly integrated into the squad, quickly becoming a vital part of the team’s defense. He has played every single minute of their opening nine league matches in the 2025 MLS season, showcasing not only his endurance but also his tactical intelligence and physical presence on the pitch.
Urhoghide’s defensive versatility—his ability to play both as a central defender and in wide defensive roles—makes him a valuable asset for the Super Eagles, especially as the team undergoes a generational transition. With stalwarts like William Troost-Ekong, Kenneth Omeruo, and Leon Balogun nearing the end of their international careers, the emergence of a young and dynamic talent like Urhoghide could not come at a better time. His inclusion in the squad is expected to bring renewed stability and strength to Nigeria’s backline moving forward.
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