But the Hoops stopper insists he couldn't be happier.

Ambrose netted the opening goal against Liberia to help the Super Eagles reach the South Africa tournament.

But it will take place from January 19 to February 10, which will mean Ambrose will be missing for an important part of the campaign.

However, he was delighted to send Nigeria on their way and revealed his goal celebrations had special meaning.

He said: "I dedicate my goal to my newly born baby, my angel Isrealle.

"I give thanks to God for the goal and victory. We deserved it and the Nigerian football fans too deserved it.

"We are very happy here and fulfilled to get to the finals.

"You are talking to the best, because Nigeria, for me, is one of the best teams in the world.

"So I believe we are going there to reclaim our lost glory.

We are not just going there to be part of the tournament.

"We are going there to at least, try to bring the trophy back to Nigeria.

"That is our aim, and that is what we will work towards.

"Going and winning in South Africa won't be easy because there are good teams in Africa and we know that. But we think we can be the best."