Khumalo Surprised by Ikpeazu’s Choice of Uganda Over Nigeria

Former Bafana Bafana captain Bongani Khumalo has expressed surprise at Uche Ikpeazu’s decision to commit his international future to Uganda instead of waiting for a chance with Nigeria.

Born in London, the St Johnstone striker was eligible for Nigeria and England before making a cap-tying appearance for the Cranes in a 2026 World Cup qualifier against Mozambique. Ikpeazu had been on the Nigeria Football Federation’s radar and was invited to a Nigeria U23 camp in 2014, raising hopes of a Super Eagles call-up. Despite encouragement from former teammate Odion Ighalo, he never received a senior invitation. Speaking on SuperSport, Khumalo said, “I’m quite surprised… I thought he would have definitely pushed for Nigeria.”

Ikpeazu now faces Nigeria at AFCON 2025.