Nigeria-eligible midfielder Huang Shenghao has received his first-ever invitation to the China senior national team.
The teenage midfielder was included in China’s latest squad after impressing with Guangdong GZ-Power and could be in line for a historic debut in the coming days. Huang was born in Guangzhou to a Chinese mother and a Nigerian father, making him eligible to represent both countries internationally.
The 19-year-old has enjoyed a rapid rise in Chinese football. His performances for China’s U19 team at the Toulon Tournament earlier this year attracted attention, with his tackling, positioning and defensive discipline earning praise from coaches.
China head coach Shao Jiayi has now rewarded those performances with a place in the senior squad ahead of an international tournament in Chongqing, where China are scheduled to face teams including New Zealand, Palestine, Tajikistan and the Maldives.
Huang joined Guangdong GZ-Power in 2023 and helped the club win promotion. He has since established himself as one of the brightest young midfielders in the country. His call-up is also significant because he is believed to be the first player of African descent to receive a senior invitation from the China national team.
Although Huang is eligible for the Super Eagles through his Nigerian father, China have moved first by bringing him into their senior setup. If he makes a competitive senior appearance and remains committed to China, Nigeria’s chances of securing his international future could become more complicated.
The youngster’s focus will be on grabbing his opportunity with China.
A senior debut would mark another major milestone in the career of a player who is quickly becoming one of the most talked-about young footballers in Asian football.
