Strong performances in MLS earned Seattle Sounders forward Obafemi Martins a return to the Nigerian national team. Now, his countryman on the other side of the Seattle-Portland divide hopes to follow a similar path.
Days after scoring the goal that decided his team's Audi 2015 MLS Cup Playoffs Western Conference Semifinal showdown with Vancouver, Portland Timbers striker Fanendo Adi told Nigerian publication Daily Trust that he's “waiting for my chance” with the Super Eagles after Martins' call-up proved that Nigeria coach Sunday Oliseh is tuned in to MLS action.
“I am so excited that I scored one of the goals that gave us victory over Whitecaps. It was not an easy victory because they gave us a serious challenge,” said Adi, who netted 16 goals in the regular season.
“This is my 17th goal for Portland Timbers this season and I am hoping that Oliseh will consider me worthy of a chance in the Super Eagles … If Obafemi Martins can get a chance to play for Eagles again, I also stand a very good chance. I am waiting for my chance but I cannot invite myself.”
Martins racked up 15 goals and 6 assists in 21 regular-season games (20 starts) for the Sounders this season and was rewarded with a return to the national team – his first call-up in more than two years – for this month's two-legged World Cup Qualifying playoff vs. Swaziland.
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Nigeria travel for Friday's first leg, then host the second in Port Harcourt four days later. The series winner will advance to the group stage of CAF qualifying for Russia 2018.
Adi, 25, had a brief stint in Nigeria's U-23 squad but has never represented his country at senior level. His Timbers will host FC Dallas for Leg 1 of the Western Conference Championship on November 22 (7:30 pm ET; FS1 in US, TSN2 in Canada).
