{
  "id": 11310815,
  "title": "How I got Eagles invite via Instgaram",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/02/how-i-got-eagles-invite-via-instgaram",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-10-02T00:04:52.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Punch Nigeria",
    "slug": "punch-nigeria",
    "url": "https://punchng.com/how-i-got-eagles-invite-via-instgaram/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "In this interview with ABIODUN ADEWALE, Basel defender Victory Akpe discusses his remarkable journey to Europe and his recent selection for Nigeria's national team. He reflects on the challenges and triumphs that have shaped his career, from his early days in Abuja to his current success in Switzerland with Basel.\n\nVictory credits his time in Lagos and the tough early days in Hyraj Football Club for teaching him resilience and the importance of fighting for his dreams. He also shares the importance of learning from coaches and the impact of social media on his career.\n\nThe midfielder's rapid rise through Lithuania's FK Banga, Hungary's Vesper FC, and Switzerland's Basel is a testament to his determination and adaptability. He emphasizes the value of humility, self-reflection, and learning from mistakes as key factors in his development.\n\nAs for his role in the Super Eagles, Victory emphasizes his defensive skills and ability to win duels, which he believes will be valuable assets to the team. He also expresses his excitement about the upcoming AFCON and his desire to establish himself among the current squad.",
  "summary": "In this interview with ABIODUN ADEWALE, Basel defender Victory Akpe opens up about his journey to Europe less than two years ago, his rapid rise through Lithuania, Hungary and Switzerland, and how he earned a call-up to the Super Eagles for the international friendly against Russia Congratulations on your Super Eagles invitation. How does it Read More:…",
  "key_points": [
    "Victory Akpe's journey from Nigeria to Europe highlights resilience and adaptability.",
    "Social media played a role in his selection for Nigeria's national team.",
    "His defensive skills make him a valuable asset for the Super Eagles."
  ],
  "editors_take": "Victory Akpe's selection for Nigeria's national team validates his unconventional path to top-level football, highlighting social media's role in connecting talent with opportunities.",
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 2,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "Punch",
        "title": "How I got Eagles invite via Instgaram",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/02/how-i-got-eagles-invite-via-instgaram-11315407",
        "published": "2026-10-02T00:32:52.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}