It wasn't a dream start for Manchester United academy graduate Maxi Oyedele, who made his competitive debut for Poland during their UEFA Nations League encounter at the Stadion Narodowy in Warsaw on Saturday night as he was forced to face a crushing defeat.
The former Forest Green loanee featured in Poland's 3-1 defeat to Portugal.
Born in Salford, England, Oyedele holds dual eligibility through his Nigerian father, Ayo Oyedele, and his Polish mother.
Despite strong ties to both nations, the youngster chose to represent Poland on the international stage, a decision his father said stems from a deeper connection to the European country.
Oyedele, who spent twelve years at Manchester United before moving to Legia Warsaw this summer, made his first international appearance under manager Michal Probierz.
The decision to call up the 19-year-old, with only 100 minutes of top-flight football under his belt, raised some eyebrows among Polish football fans.
Even more surprising was his inclusion in the starting lineup against a formidable Portugal side led by Cristiano Ronaldo.
Is Maxi Oyedele eligible for Super Eagles?
Although Oyedele made his competitive debut for Poland, he remains eligible to play for the Super Eagles, according to FIFA’s eligibility rules.
The young midfielder will not be permanently tied to Poland unless he earns three more caps before turning 21.
Donning the number 17 jersey, Oyedele featured for 66 minutes in the clash before being substituted for Jakub Moder.
His debut marks a significant milestone in his career, but it has not ruled out the possibility of him representing Nigeria in the future.
Interestingly, Oyedele was not the only player of African descent to feature for Poland during the match.
Raków Częstochowa winger Michael Ameyaw, who is eligible for Ghana, also made his debut, entering the game in the 76th minute.
With three games remaining in Poland’s 2024 schedule, Oyedele’s international future remains uncertain.
