In a significant development for international football, Nigeria-eligible goalkeeper Owen Goodman has officially accepted an invitation to join the Canadian senior national team, despite earlier interest from the Nigeria Football Federation.
From Flying Eagles to Canadian Dreams
The Crystal Palace goalkeeper had previously received an invitation to play for Nigeria's U20 team, the Flying Eagles, as they prepared for the U20 FIFA World Cup in Argentina. Goodman even met with NFF president Ibrahim Gusau and presented him with a signed club shirt during a visit to Nigeria alongside his mother.
However, the promising shot-stopper ultimately failed to show up in camp for the Nigerian team, citing several issues that prevented his participation. This development comes as a blow to Nigeria's ongoing efforts to recruit foreign-born talents for the national team setup.
Canadian Connection Seals the Deal
Born in London to Nigerian parents, Goodman moved to Canada at the age of five and has maintained strong connections to the North American nation. The goalkeeper has represented both Canada U20 and England U20 at youth levels, maintaining eligibility for all three countries at senior level until making his final decision.
In a revealing statement to Goalkeeper.com, Goodman expressed his clear preference: "I grew up in Canada, I was born in England, I've spent a lot of my life in Canada and England. I've played for England at the youth level, but looking at it now, I feel like my dream is to play for Canada."
His father, Phil Goodman, has supported the decision, noting that his son "feels more Canadian than Nigerian" despite his heritage. The family currently awaits citizenship approval from Canadian authorities, which would formalize Goodman's international commitment.
Implications for Nigerian Football
Goodman's choice represents a missed opportunity for the Nigerian football system, which has successfully integrated several foreign-born players in recent years. Stars like Ademola Lookman, Joe Aribo, and Semi Ajayi have all chosen to represent the Super Eagles after being recruited through similar pathways.
The situation highlights potential challenges in Nigeria's approach to recruiting dual-eligible players, particularly regarding integration processes and communication with prospective talents. As Goodman pursues his international career with Canada, having already made the bench for their 0-0 draw against Ecuador in an international friendly, Nigerian football authorities may need to reassess their recruitment strategy for overseas-born eligible players.
Meanwhile, the NFF continues to monitor other dual-eligible talents, including Liverpool's in-form youth striker Joshua Sonni-Lambie, who remains eligible for Nigeria, Spain, or England at senior level.
