The Super Eagles are set to play two high?profile international friendly matches this summer, officially scheduled for June?3 against Poland national football team and June?10 against Portugal national football team, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The fixtures come during a busy international window following the March friendlies in Turkey, where Nigeria recorded a 2?1 win over Iran and a 2?2 draw with Jordan. Despite these results, the Super Eagles remained 26th in the latest FIFA men’s rankings, holding steady in both global and African standings.

June’s matches present valuable opportunities for head coach Éric?Chelle to further assess his squad and build cohesion ahead of upcoming competitive assignments, including qualifiers for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations. Facing European opposition of Poland and Portugal, both nations with strong football pedigrees, will allow the Super Eagles to test tactical systems and player combinations at a high level.

Nigeria’s clash with Poland on June?3 is expected to be closely contested, while the June?10 encounter with Portugal offers the chance to challenge one of Europe’s most established sides. Portugal remains a top?ranked team globally and will provide a stern test for Nigeria’s defence and attacking units.

As preparations continue, further details on kick?off times, venues, and squad selections are expected to be released by the Nigeria Football Federation in the coming weeks.

The friendlies form part of Nigeria’s broader strategy to maintain competitive momentum and international exposure after missing out on the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America.

Nigeria’s Super Eagles have maintained their position in the latest FIFA rankings released on Wednesday, retaining 26th place globally, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The three-time African champions, who finished third at the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco earlier this year, also remain unchanged in the continental standings, holding on to third place in Africa.

Despite recent results, including a 2-1 victory over Iran national football team and a 2-2 draw with Jordan national football team in Turkey, Nigeria’s ranking points were not enough to trigger any movement. Both Iran and Jordan dropped in the latest rankings to 21st and 63rd positions, respectively.

In Africa, Morocco's national football team remains the top-ranked side and is placed 8th globally, while Senegal's national football team sits second on the continent but dropped two places to 14th in the world. Nigeria continues to occupy third spot, ahead of Algeria national football team and Egypt's national football team in fourth and fifth, respectively.

Rounding out Africa’s top 10 are Côte d’Ivoire national football team, Tunisia national football team, Cameroon national football team, DR Congo national football team, and Mali national football team.

On the global stage, France national football team climbed to the top of the rankings, overtaking Spain national football team and Argentina national football team, who now occupy second and third positions respectively.

The rest of the global top 10 features England national football team, Portugal national football team, Brazil national football team, Netherlands national football team, Morocco, Belgium national football team, and Germany national football team.

Meanwhile, Nigeria will not feature at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America, with the next edition of the rankings scheduled for release on June 10, 2026.

The Nigeria Football Federation will on Thursday, April 2, 2026, formally inaugurate its Electoral Committee and Electoral Appeals Committee as part of preparations for its upcoming elections, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The inauguration ceremony will take place at the NFF Secretariat in Abuja and will be presided over by NFF President Ibrahim Musa Gusau, who also serves as President of WAFU B.

The committees were constituted during the federation’s Extraordinary General Assembly held in Yenagoa on March 23, 2026, as part of efforts to ensure a transparent and credible electoral process.

A total of 12 individuals have been appointed across both bodies. The Electoral Committee will consist of seven members, including a chairperson, vice chairperson, three full members, and two alternates, while the Electoral Appeals Committee will have five members, comprising three full members and two alternates.

According to the NFF, the Electoral Committee will be responsible for organizing, conducting, and supervising the elections in line with the federation’s statutes and the 2026 Electoral Code. The Electoral Appeals Committee will handle disputes and appeals arising from the process to ensure fairness and due process.

The appointed members include Barrister Matthew Burkala (SAN), Hon. Justice C. J. Aneke, Emmanuel Dada Obafemi, Alhaji Babagoni Grema, Barrister Benjamin Sak, Mallam Bature Musa, Professor Abdulmalik Awwal, Arinze Azubuike Anughere, Hon. (Dr) Akogun Olugbenga Omole, Abayomi Akin Omoyimi, Ayibaye Peter Great Temedie, and Ayi Ekpo Ukpayam.

The inauguration marks the official commencement of activities by both committees ahead of the NFF Elective Congress scheduled to take place in Lafia on September 26, 2026, where key decisions regarding the leadership of Nigerian football will be made.

Nigeria’s Super Eagles are set to feature in the upcoming Unity Cup scheduled to take place in London this May, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The three-time African champions head into the competition as defending holders, having won the previous edition with victories over Ghana national football team and Jamaica national football team.

According to the latest update, Nigeria will face India national football team and Jamaica in a mini-tournament scheduled to run from May 26 to May 30.

The competition is expected to form part of preparations for the team ahead of the qualifiers for the Africa Cup of Nations in 2027.

It will also provide an opportunity for the Super Eagles to improve their standing in the FIFA rankings while giving the coaching crew a platform to assess players and refine tactical approaches.

With a blend of competitive fixtures and international exposure, the Unity Cup presents a valuable opportunity for Nigeria to build momentum ahead of crucial continental assignments.

Moses Simon was on target once more, while Emmanuel Fernandez opened his Super Eagles goal account in a 2-2 draw against Jordan national football team in Tuesday’s international friendly in Antalya, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

Simon, who also scored in the 2-1 win over Iran national football team, continued his fine form by netting the equaliser, while Fernandez marked his first start with a composed finish to give Nigeria the lead before the break.

Head coach Éric Chelle made six changes to his starting lineup, handing opportunities to the likes of Francis Uzoho, Zaidu Sanusi, Raphael Onyedika, Frank Onyeka, Fernandez, and debutant Yira Sor.

Jordan opened the scoring in the 17th minute through Mousa Tamari, whose well-struck free-kick beat Uzoho. Nigeria responded in the 26th minute when Simon reacted quickly to a loose ball, controlling it before firing a low strike past the goalkeeper.

Fernandez then put the Super Eagles ahead just before halftime, finishing calmly after controlling a cross from Onyeka. However, Nigeria suffered a setback when Uzoho was forced off through injury and replaced by Adebayo Adeleye.

Jordan found their equaliser in the 77th minute through Mohammed Al-Daoud, who finished neatly inside the box.

The match ended on a tense note as Alex Iwobi was shown a straight red card in stoppage time following an off-the-ball incident, forcing Nigeria to finish the game with 10 men.

Son of Nigeria's famous sports administrator, Dr. Amos Adamu, was on Sunday, March 29, appointed as the Acting Secretary General of the Confederation of African Football (CAF).

According to the statement released yesterday by the Director of Communications of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Dr Ademola Olajire, Samson is the first Nigerian to be appointed to the position since the continent's football-governing body was founded 70 years ago.

Samson Adamu replaced Swiss-Congolese Veron Mosengo-Omba, who tendered his resignation the same day.

Before his latest appointment, Adamu was the CAF's Director of Tournaments and Events, and played key roles in the successful organisation of major continental competitions.

His name was proposed by the CAF Executive Committee and ratified by the Congress, at its meeting of Sunday, 29th March 2026 at the Giza Palace Hotel in Cairo, Egypt.

It will be recalled that Samson's father, Dr Adamu once served as an Executive Committee member of FIFA and the Confederation of African Football, and also served as Director-General of the National Sports Commission (NSC).

In December 2000, Adamu was named President for the Organising Committee for the 8th All-Africa Games (COJA).

Nigeria won the Games held in October 2023 in the newly constructed Abuja National Stadium now renamed as MKO Abiola Stadium Abuja.

The leadership of the National Sports Commission has praised the appointment of Samson Adamu as Acting General Secretary of the Confederation of African Football, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

Adamu’s appointment was proposed by CAF’s Executive Committee and ratified by Congress during its meeting at the Giza Palace Hotel in Cairo, Egypt. The development marks the first time in over 70 years that a Nigerian has occupied an influential administrative role within African football.

Chairman of the NSC, Shehu Dikko, described the appointment as a proud moment for the country, highlighting Adamu’s pedigree and contributions to football governance.

“This is a landmark achievement not just for Samson Adamu, but for Nigeria as a whole. His track record within CAF speaks volumes, and we are confident that he will bring excellence, integrity, and progressive leadership to this new role,” Dikko stated.

Also speaking, Director General of the Commission, Bukola Olopade, said the appointment was well deserved, noting Adamu’s professionalism and deep understanding of football administration at the highest level.

Adamu, who previously served as CAF’s Director of Tournaments and Events, is the son of former sports administrator Amos Adamu and is widely respected for his role in organizing major continental competitions.

He succeeds Véron Mosengo-Omba, who announced his retirement, stating that he leaves office satisfied after addressing concerns raised about his integrity and contributions to the organization.

Paul Onuachu has reiterated his commitment to Trabzonspor despite attracting interest from several clubs, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The Nigerian striker has been in prolific form this season, scoring 21 goals and providing two assists in 24 league appearances, a run that has drawn attention from Bundesliga sides Bayer 04 Leverkusen, VfL Wolfsburg, and Werder Bremen.

Interest has also emerged from Al-Ahli Saudi FC, who are reportedly prepared to offer the forward a lucrative deal worth around €6 million, significantly higher than his current salary in Turkey.

However, Onuachu remains focused on continuing his journey with Trabzonspor after completing a permanent move from Southampton FC last summer.

The 31-year-old forward made his intentions clear, emphasizing his ambition to achieve success with the club.

“I will stay here. We have trophies to win with Trabzonspor,” he was quoted as saying.

The Confederation of African Football has announced plans to implement significant changes to its statutes and regulations aimed at strengthening trust in referees, VAR officials, and judicial bodies, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

CAF President Patrice Motsepe confirmed that the reforms are designed to prevent a recurrence of the controversies that marred the final of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

“CAF is currently implementing far-reaching changes and improvements to the CAF Statutes and Regulations, which will strengthen the trust and confidence in CAF referees, VAR operators, match commissioners, and in the CAF Disciplinary Board and Appeal Board,” Motsepe stated.

He added that the governing body has sought extensive legal input from leading African and international football experts to ensure its regulations align with global best practices, both on and off the pitch.

Motsepe also emphasized the need to improve the professionalism of match officials across the continent, including better training and remuneration, in collaboration with FIFA.

According to him, the reforms are part of CAF’s broader commitment to enhancing governance, transparency, and integrity within African football, while maintaining a zero-tolerance stance on corruption and improper conduct.

Morocco and South Africa have formally notified the Confederation of African Football of their readiness to host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations if the designated co-hosts fail to meet preparations, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The two nations confirmed they possess the required infrastructure, including stadiums, training facilities, and logistics, to successfully stage the tournament at short notice. Their move comes amid growing concerns over the preparedness of the current co-hosts, Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania.

CAF is understood to be closely monitoring the progress of the East African trio, while also putting contingency plans in place to avoid any disruption to the competition.

The willingness of Morocco and South Africa to step in underscores CAF’s commitment to ensuring a smooth and successful tournament, regardless of any uncertainties surrounding the readiness of the original hosts.

Goals from Moses Simon and Akor Adams earned the Super Eagles a 2–1 victory over Iran in Friday’s international friendly clash in Antalya, Turkey, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

It was Nigeria’s second win in three meetings against Iran, alongside one draw, as Éric Chelle named a strong starting XI featuring Maduka Okoye, Wilfred Ndidi, Alex Iwobi, Samuel Chukwueze, Ademola Lookman, and Adams.

Nigeria made a bright start and took the lead as early as the sixth minute when Simon latched onto a pass from Chukwueze, cut inside his marker, and fired a low shot beyond the goalkeeper. Iran responded with attacking intent, but Okoye produced a fine save to deny a low effort, while Semi Ajayi made a crucial block to keep the advantage intact.

The Super Eagles continued to threaten, with Chukwueze and Adams both going close before the break. The pressure eventually paid off early in the second half when Adams doubled the lead in the 51st minute, calmly finishing after being set up by Lookman’s incisive pass.

Iran pushed back and nearly reduced the deficit, but Bright Osayi-Samuel made a vital block inside the box. The Iranians eventually pulled one back in the 67th minute through Mehdi Taremi, who reacted quickest after a corner struck the crossbar.

Nigeria remained composed in the closing stages, with Paul Onuachu and Chidera Ejuke both going close to extending the lead. Taremi thought he had equalised late on, but his effort was ruled out for handball in the buildup.

The game also saw debut appearances for Emmanuel Fernandez and Chibuike Nwaiwu, marking a positive outing for the new invitees.

The Super Eagles will now turn their attention to their next friendly fixture against Jordan on Tuesday, March 31, also in Antalya.

Victor Osimhen has successfully undergone surgery on a fractured right forearm sustained during Galatasaray S.K.’s 4–0 defeat to Liverpool F.C. in the UEFA Champions League Round of 16 second leg, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The Turkish club confirmed in a statement that the procedure was carried out at Maslak Ac?badem Hospital by club doctor Yener ?nce following initial medical assessments and X-rays.

The injury occurred during the first half at Anfield after a mid-air collision with Ibrahima Konaté, who landed on the striker’s arm. Despite the discomfort, Osimhen continued until halftime before being substituted.

While recovering in Nigeria ahead of the surgery, Osimhen revealed that Konaté reached out to check on his condition after the match.

The 27-year-old remains optimistic about his recovery, estimating a four-week healing period followed by two weeks to regain full match fitness.

Prior to the injury, Osimhen had been in excellent form, registering 19 goals and seven assists in 29 appearances across all competitions, including seven goals in the UEFA Champions League.

Alex Iwobi was the victim of a reported armed burglary at his home in England, NigeriaSoccernet.com reports.

Unidentified assailants allegedly broke into the residence and confronted the Fulham FC midfielder at knifepoint while searching the property.

According to reports, the attackers carted away several valuable items, including designer wristwatches, jewellery, two iPhones, and a MacBook laptop. A large sum of cash, said to be around £200,000, stored in a safe, was also stolen.

The total value of the stolen items is estimated to be approximately £500,000.

Iwobi was able to free himself after the suspects fled and subsequently alerted authorities, who have since launched an investigation into the incident.

Fortunately, neither the Nigerian international nor any member of his household sustained injuries during the ordeal.

The Nigeria Football Federation has approved the appointment of a 12-member Electoral Committee and Electoral Appeals Committee ahead of its 2026 Elective Congress, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The decision was confirmed in a communiqué issued after the Federation’s Annual General Assembly held in Yenagoa, with nominations drawn from the six geopolitical zones, each contributing two representatives.

The nominees include Matthew Burkala and Emmanuel Dada Obafemi (North Central); Babagoni Grema and Benjamin Sak (North East); Bature Musa and Abdulmalik Awwal (North West); C. J. Aneke and Arinze Azubuike Anughere (South East); Olugbenga Omole and Abayomi Akin Omoyimi (South West); as well as Ayibaye Peter Great Temedie and Ayi Ekpo Ukpayam (South South).

The Federation stated that the committees will be inaugurated in Abuja on March 25, 2026, where members will elect their respective chairpersons.

In line with the NFF Electoral Code, the Electoral Committee will consist of five members and two alternates, while the Electoral Appeals Committee will have three members and two alternates.

The NFF Elective Congress is scheduled to take place in Lafia on September 26, 2026.

The Nigeria Football Federation has appointed Ernst & Young (EY) as its new independent auditor, bringing to an end the nine-year tenure of PricewaterhouseCoopers, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The decision was announced in a communiqué issued after the Federation’s Annual General Assembly held in Yenagoa, with EY set to serve an initial four-year term in line with government regulations and NFF statutes.

According to the communiqué, the appointment followed a rigorous selection process involving seven audit firms, with the recommendation of the Executive Committee receiving unanimous approval from Congress.

“The Congress unanimously approved the appointment of Messrs Ernst & Young (EY) as the new Independent Auditor of the Nigeria Football Federation,” the statement read.

The Federation also commended PwC for its nine years of service in overseeing its audit functions.

EY, founded in 1989, is one of the world’s leading professional services firms and part of the global “Big Four” network, with offices across Nigeria, including Abuja, Lagos, and Port Harcourt.

Yenagoa is set to host the 2026 Extraordinary General Assembly of the Nigeria Football Federation today, Monday, March 23, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

Governor Douye Diri will officially declare the assembly open at the DSP Alamieyeseigha Banquet Hall.

Top dignitaries expected at the event include Shehu Dikko, Bukola Olopade, Abdul Ningi, and Kabiru Amadu.

The assembly will bring together chairmen and secretaries of Football Associations from the 36 states and the FCT, alongside members of the NFF Executive Committee, league bodies, and other stakeholders, including the Coaches Association, Referees Association, and Players’ Union.

NFF President Ibrahim Musa Gusau is expected to deliver the welcome address before proceedings move into the business session.

Key agenda items include proposed amendments to the NFF Statutes, Electoral Code, and Standing Orders, as well as the appointment of members to the NFF Electoral Committee, Electoral Appeals Committee, and the selection of an independent auditor.

Representatives from FIFA and the Confederation of African Football are already in Nigeria to observe the proceedings of the assembly.

Assistant coaches Daniel Ogunmodede and Fidelis Ilechukwu are expected to arrive in Turkey on Monday, March 23, 2026, ahead of the Nigeria national football team’s upcoming international friendlies, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The fixtures against Iran and the Jordan national football team form part of preparations for future competitive engagements under head coach Éric Chelle.

Despite retaining their roles in the national setup, both assistants are currently under increased scrutiny from the Nigeria Football Federation technical committee, amid concerns over the depth of experience within the backroom staff.

According to a senior federation official, there are doubts about whether the current assistants are ready to step into the head coach role at short notice, prompting discussions about strengthening the technical crew with more experienced Nigerian coaches.

“Neither of the current assistant coaches is seen as ready to take charge of the Super Eagles at short notice,” the official revealed, adding that plans are underway to reinforce the bench.

The NFF technical committee is expected to meet with Chelle in the coming weeks to evaluate the situation and consider possible adjustments to the coaching structure.

Ogunmodede recently enhanced his credentials by obtaining a UEFA B coaching licence in Scotland and previously led Remo Stars F.C. to a historic Nigeria Premier Football League title in the 2024/2025 season.

Meanwhile, Ilechukwu continues to impress domestically with Rangers International F.C., who are firmly in contention for the league title this season.

The developments highlight ongoing efforts by the federation to strengthen the Super Eagles’ technical structure as the team continues its rebuilding process.

Achraf Hakimi has publicly declined recognition as the winner of the Africa Cup of Nations, insisting that Morocco national football team did not earn the title on the pitch, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The Paris Saint-Germain F.C. defender made the remarks following Morocco’s defeat to Senegal national football team in the tournament final, despite a subsequent ruling by the Confederation of African Football awarding Morocco a 3–0 victory due to Senegal’s walk-off during the match.

Hakimi stressed that he could not accept the title under such circumstances, maintaining that Senegal deserved to be recognised as champions based on their performance during the game.

“Football is about merit,” Hakimi said, emphasising that victories should be decided on the field rather than through administrative decisions.

While acknowledging CAF’s authority, the Moroccan captain reiterated his personal rejection of any outcome that contradicts what transpired during play, adding that accepting the trophy would undermine the principles of fair competition.

The controversy stems from the CAF Appeal Board’s decision to overturn the original result of the final, ruling that Senegal forfeited the match following the walk-off incident in Rabat.

However, the Senegalese Football Federation has strongly opposed the verdict and confirmed plans to challenge the decision at the Court of Arbitration for Sport.

Hakimi’s stance has drawn widespread attention across the football world, with many observers highlighting the rarity of a player rejecting a major continental honour on grounds of sporting integrity.

The situation continues to fuel debate within African football, raising broader questions about governance, fairness, and how competition outcomes should ultimately be determined.

Éric Chelle has unveiled a 23-man squad for the Nigeria national football team’s upcoming international friendlies against Iran national football team and Jordan national football team, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The squad features key names including captain Wilfred Ndidi, Alex Iwobi, and Ademola Lookman, alongside regulars such as Maduka Okoye, Oluwasemilogo Ajayi, Frank Onyeka, Moses Simon, Samuel Chukwueze, Akor Adams, and Paul Onuachu.

There are also maiden call-ups for Emmanuel Fernandez, Philip Otele, and Collins Yira Sor, reflecting Chelle’s intent to integrate new talents into the squad.

The Super Eagles will face Iran in Antalya on March 27 before taking on Jordan on March 31. Both matches were initially scheduled to be played in Amman but were moved due to the outbreak of conflict in the Middle East.

Full Squad List:

Goalkeepers:

Maduka Okoye (Udinese Calcio), Adebayo Adeleye (Volos F.C.), Francis Uzoho (AC Omonia)

Defenders:

Calvin Bassey (Fulham F.C.), Oluwasemilogo Ajayi (Hull City A.F.C.), Bright Osayi-Samuel (Birmingham City F.C.), Bruno Onyemaechi (Olympiacos F.C.), Zaidu Sanusi (FC Porto), Igoh Ogbu (SK Slavia Prague), Emmanuel Fernandez (Rangers F.C.)

Midfielders:

Alex Iwobi (Fulham F.C.), Frank Onyeka (Coventry City F.C.), Wilfred Ndidi (Be?ikta? J.K.), Raphael Onyedika (Club Brugge KV), Fisayo Dele-Bashiru (S.S. Lazio)

Forwards:

Ademola Lookman (Atlético Madrid), Samuel Chukwueze (Fulham F.C.), Moses Simon (Paris FC), Chidera Ejuke (Sevilla FC), Paul Onuachu (Trabzonspor), Akor Adams (Sevilla FC), Philip Otele (Hamburger SV), Collins Yira Sor (KRC Genk).

The friendlies will provide Chelle with a valuable opportunity to assess his squad as preparations continue for upcoming competitive fixtures.

The Royal Moroccan Football Federation has formally acknowledged the recent ruling by the Confederation of African Football Appeals Committee concerning the Africa Cup of Nations dispute, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

In a statement released on Tuesday, the federation clarified that its appeal was not intended to undermine any team's sporting performance but to ensure strict adherence to competition regulations and governance standards.

“The Federation reiterates that its approach has always been grounded in respect for the rules, the clarity of the competitive framework, and the stability of African competitions,” the statement read.

The FRMF also praised all participating nations in the Africa Cup of Nations, describing the tournament as a key moment for African football both on and off the pitch.

While stopping short of revealing its next line of action, the Moroccan federation confirmed that a more detailed position will be communicated after a scheduled meeting of its governing bodies.

The CAF Appeals Committee’s decision has intensified discussions around governance, regulatory consistency, and transparency in African football, with increasing calls for clearer rules and improved decision-making processes across competitions.

As a major stakeholder in continental football, Morocco’s next move is expected to play a significant role in shaping ongoing debates around reforms and accountability within CAF structures.