Soccer
Former Super Eagles forward Peter Osaze Odemwingie and Millwall attacker Femi Azeez. Copyright: Imago
Super Eagles and Millwall winger Femi Azeez has spoken about the rising comparisons amongst Nigerian fans likening him to former Stoke City forward Osaze Odemwingie, Soccernet.ng reports.
The 24-year-old earned a maiden call-up to the Nigerian National team last month, ahead of the 2026 Unity Cup tournament, and was a starter in the semi-final against Zimbabwe.
In the game against the Warriors, the Millwall winger scored a brace to help Chelle’s side seal a 2-0 win. The reactions from fans affirmed that they’d like to see Azeez more in a Super Eagles jersey.
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Azeez was included in the 2025/2026 EFL Championship Team of the Year, but his looks and style of play have seen him likened to Osaze Odemwingie.
However, while he appreciates the motion, he recognises what the Tashkent-born legend means to the Nigerian populace, and would prefer to make a name for himself.
“I’m hearing it every day now, but I’ve got to stay humble and create a name for myself,” the ex-Reading winger said in an interview with Flashscore.
Millwall declined Nigeria’s invitation for the Aston Villa-linked winger to join up with the Super Eagles for the friendlies against Poland and Portugal. Still, he’s looking forward to playing alongside Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman.
“I was really happy when I got the call from the manager. I was honoured and very proud,” he continued.
“Of course, I’d love to play with them [Ademola Lookman and Victor Osimhen].
“They’re among the best players in Africa, so naturally I want to learn from them and improve my game,” Femi Azeez concluded.
Banik Ostrava right-back Bewene Abdullahi was called up to replace Femi Azeez for the clash against Poland, and the defender was brilliant in the 2-2 draw against Robert Lewandowski’s side.
Aston Villa interested in Femi Azeez
Ipswich Town have already seen their 20-million-euro bid rejected by Millwall, but Unai Emery’s Villa are lurking in the shadows, having already registered interest in Femi Azeez.
However, the UEFA Europa League winners will need to sanction sales before straying into the transfer market this summer. The winger, meanwhile, wants to play in the English Premier League.
“As a footballer, you always want to play at the highest level you can play at,” the two-cap Super Eagle said to Sky Sports.
“The Premier League is the pinnacle of football. I’d love to play in the Premier League. So obviously, I’m working hard, I’m going to do whatever I can to get there.”
Meanwhile, former Manchester United captain Wayne Rooney on the Overlap, tipped Azeez to be one of the Championship players to make the big break to the English top-flight this summer.
Adefolahan Guerreiro
Adefolahan is a multilingual CAF-Accredited sports journalist and football writer whose work spans outlets like Soccernet Nigeria, Pure Football UK, and Royalsportz.
With a sharp eye for detail and a background in college sports, he tells the African football story with depth, flair, and global perspective.
Fluent in English, Spanish, and German, he brings a cross-cultural voice to his coverage, blending insight with accessibility for readers around the world.
His portfolio includes interviews with top Nigerian stars like Finidi George, Junior Lokosa, Sikiru Alimi, Sodiq Ismaila, and Abraham Onahi Ogbu.
A devoted Borussia Dortmund fan, Adefolahan thrives on the emotion and rhythm of the beautiful game. Away from work, he’s a sci-fi enthusiast and series lover who enjoys exploring how sport, storytelling, and culture collide.
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