Strasbourg FC attacker Emanuel Emegha has explained why he chose the Netherlands over Nigeria.
Emegha’s 87th-minute appearance in the Netherlands’ World Cup qualifying match against Poland means he is no longer eligible to play for Nigeria.
Emegha was born in the Netherlands to a Togolese father and Nigerian mother.
He is now cap-tied to Holland after making his competitive debut in Friday’s World Cup qualifier against Poland in Warsaw.
Emegha replaced Memphis Depay in the 87th minute, thereby officially becoming cap-tied to the Oranje.
He had previously revealed that the Nigeria Football Federation had approached him regarding a possible switch.
The striker, who will join Chelsea at the end of the season, was quoted by Sportnieuws as saying, “The Netherlands is simply my country. I’m a proud Dutchman and always will be. Even if I weren’t called up, I would still be Dutch.
“I’m going to work towards the World Cup all season. I’ll do anything for that – score more goals, provide more assists, be extremely fit. I’ve had a lot of injuries this season; I want to be in top shape.”
