Capturing Finidi’s Heart: NPFL’s Impact on Ismail’s Rise
Super Eagles coach Finidi George's invitation of Remo Stars' Sodiq Ismail to join the national team is seen as a breakthrough moment not just for the young defender, but for the entire club. Ismail, a 20-year-old right-back, is the first Remo Stars player to earn a call-up to the men's national team, according to PUNCH Sports Extra.
Ismail's debut call-up came last Friday when the Nigeria Football Federation revealed George's 23-man squad for the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers against South Africa and Benin Republic. The games are scheduled for June 7 in Uyo against Bafana Bafana and June 10 in Ivory Coast against Benin Republic.
Among the players selected, Ismail and Enyimba's goalkeeper, Ojo Olorunleke, represent the Nigerian Premier Football League on the int...