Last update on.
Chiedozie Obbene: Republic of Ireland's first African born player talks of family pride
It was a milestone moment for both country and player when Chiedozie Obene was substituted in the 89th minute of Republic of Ireland's 0-0 friendly draw against Hungary on 8 June.
The Republic's first senior-level cap for an African-born player was awarded to the Rotherham winger, aged 24.
Ogbene, who was born May 1997 in Lagos, Nigeria, said, "It was an unforgettable moment for me, my family."
"We went on a completely different journey. My father was offered a job and brought his family to Ireland. I was born in Cork and learned the culture.
"Stephen Kenny, Republic of Ireland manager, wanted me to declare for Ireland and so I expressed interest.
"There were many complications in the registration process and how I got into the country, but it was very rewarding to be the first African-born player.
It's priceless to see how proud my family and Cork residents are of me. It's amazing to see the support from Ireland."
Coleman "spoke out for us, by taking a bow"
The Republic players took a knee before kick-off in Hungary's goalless draw. This was a symbol of the country's opposition to racism.
Ogbene was among three black players that represented Kenny's side at Budapest. Adam Idah, Gavin Bazunu and Gavin Bazunu each started a fixture in front of more than 7,000 spectators.
Hungarian fans booed the Irish players in retaliation. Ogbene was one of those who called for Uefa, Europe's governing body, to investigate and take appropriate action.
Ogbene explained that Seamus Coleman, the captain of the team was pushing for us all to kneel.
"I understand how difficult it is for people of different backgrounds and races to speak up, and he made it easy by speaking for us.
"I understand how difficult it can be for younger players, but it shows the culture of unity we have in this country and that's why it's why it's so proud to me to be here."
"My mom feels famous"
Ogbene revealed that his mother was his first contact after he won his first cap. He followed his brothers shortly thereafter.
"My mum calls me every game, every time I play it, to find out how I feel and if my health is good." He said, "She was crying. I could hear her emotion."
"Parents are proud when their children do well. Because of where my family is from in Cork, many people notice my mum and ask her about her. She feels special. It makes her happy.
"She said that she always dreamed of me helping to recognize her.
"I then called my brothers. I also have two sisters. We all did a Zoom call. My dad is the father figure, and he was always happy to be last.
Before he became a football player, Ogbene played Gaelic football with Nemo Rangers.
GAA or football?
Growing up in Cork, Ogbene, a teenager, was exposed to sport as he was a child. He had to choose between Gaelic football or association football for his affections.
In 2015, he joined Cork City, a League of Ireland club. He helped his hometown team win the FAI Cup one year later.
He was also turning out for Nemo Rangers, his local GAA club.
He said, "I had to make an enormous sacrifice at 17 to leave GAA. This was a huge sacrifice in my career."
"I've loved Cork since my first day there. My school keeps in touch with me, with some children telling me how they've inspired them. People tell me how they inspire other children and I take pride in that.
"I had many heated conversations. People didn't believe I would make it. I was still in Cork City.
"I had a big match up, a country final [with Nemo], Cork had to play UCD away so I had to make an important decision.
"I am quite emotional and it was difficult to ring Nemo Rangers to tell them that I was going to follow the football route.
It wasn't an easy decision. Although I was young, I still have the support and encouragement of Nemo Rangers as well as all the GAA people.
