Not playing at the World Cup still burns me – Ex Super Eagles Goalkeeper
By Tosin Omojola
Former Super Eagles goalkeeper Carl Ikeme has revealed the one regret that still lingers from his football career, saying missing the 2018 FIFA World Cup with Nigeria remains a painful memory.
Ikeme, whose career was cut short by leukemia, said he wishes he had represented Nigeria more often and featured in a major international tournament before his retirement.
“My regret in my football career is not representing Nigeria more and not going to major competitions with the team,” Ikeme said.
“I should have been at the World Cup, unfortunately we know why I could not make it.
“It has always been that thing in me. I have no regrets about football, but that is the only thing that still burns me.”
Ikeme was forced to retire after being diagnosed with leukemia in 2017, ruling him out of Nigeria’s squad for the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia.
His absence also left the Super Eagles searching for a dependable first-choice goalkeeper for several years before Stanley Nwabali established himself as the team’s No. 1.
