{
  "id": 12258412,
  "title": "I’m always happy to play for Nigeria – Iheanacho",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/06/im-always-happy-to-play-for-nigeria-iheanacho",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-10-06T00:02:18.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Punch Nigeria",
    "slug": "punch-nigeria",
    "url": "https://punchng.com/im-always-happy-to-play-for-nigeria-iheanacho/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Striker Kelechi Iheanacho expressed his enduring love for Nigeria's national football team, the Super Eagles, stating he is always thrilled to play for them. The Bursaspor forward was recently recalled after a 16-month absence from the team, having last played during the 2025 Unity Cup final against Jamaica. Iheanacho's love for the game and his country, combined with his desire to fulfill every player's dream of representing Nigeria, led him back to the Super Eagles. He emphasized that he is prepared to play in any capacity, whether it's a five-a-side match or a senior national team call-up, showcasing his deep passion for football. Iheanacho, who has been a part of the Super Eagles since his youth, remains optimistic about the upcoming friendly against Russia, expressing excitement about playing alongside his teammates and contributing to a successful outing.",
  "summary": "Super Eagles striker Kelechi Iheanacho says he is always happy to play for Nigeria, stating passion for the country brought him back to the national team. Read More: https://punchng.com/im-always-happy-to-play-for-nigeria-iheanacho/",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 2,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "Punch",
        "title": "I’m always happy to play for Nigeria – Iheanacho",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/05/im-always-happy-to-play-for-nigeria-iheanacho",
        "published": "2026-10-05T23:48:18.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "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."
}