Eric Chelle has confirmed that several established stars will not feature for the Super Eagles at the upcoming Unity Cup in London, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

Top players, including Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, Calvin Bassey, and Wilfred Ndidi, will be absent from the invitational tournament as the coach shifts focus to evaluating fresh talent.

Chelle explained that the competition will serve as a platform to assess emerging players, particularly from the domestic league, as well as fringe players based in Europe.

“The Unity Cup provides a platform to assess new players. I will comb Europe and invite new players of Nigerian descent, alongside those who were previously called up but never got the chance to feature,” he said.

The Franco-Malian tactician also emphasized the importance of the Nigeria Premier Football League, revealing that standout performers from the domestic scene will be given a real opportunity to impress.

“Top players from the Nigeria Premier Football League will also be considered as I will be watching a number of domestic league games from now until the end of the season,” he added.

The Unity Cup is expected to play a key role in Chelle’s rebuilding process, offering him the chance to expand his player pool and identify new options ahead of future international competitions.

Eric Chelle has confirmed that his strongest squad will be deployed for the Super Eagles’ high-profile international friendlies against Poland national football team and Portugal national football team, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

Nigeria is set to face Poland on June 3 before taking on Portugal on June 10 in what are expected to be crucial preparatory fixtures.

Speaking ahead of the matches, Chelle stressed the importance of the encounters, revealing that he will rely on his first-team players rather than experimenting with fringe options.

“For the big warm-up games in June against Poland and Portugal, I will feature my first team players. These are games that can push up the global ranking if we win them,” he said.

The decision highlights a more strategic approach to friendly matches, with the technical crew aiming to maximise results and improve Nigeria’s position in the FIFA rankings.

Both Poland and Portugal are regarded as strong European opponents, and the fixtures are expected to serve as a significant test for the Super Eagles as they continue preparations for upcoming international competitions.

Eric Chelle has revealed plans to use the 2026 Unity Cup as an opportunity to assess new players for the Super Eagles, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The four-nation tournament is scheduled to take place at The Valley, home of Charlton Athletic, from May 26 to 30, with Nigeria set to defend its title against India, Zimbabwe, and Jamaica.

The Super Eagles will face Zimbabwe national football team in the semi-finals, while India national football team will take on Jamaica national football team in the other last-four fixture.

Speaking ahead of the competition, Chelle explained that the tournament will serve as a platform to evaluate fresh talent, including players of Nigerian descent in Europe and standout performers from the domestic league.

“The Unity Cup provides a platform to assess new players. I will comb Europe and invite new players of Nigerian descent, alongside those who were previously called up but never got the chance to feature,” Chelle said.

“Top players from the Nigeria Premier Football League will also be considered as I will be watching some domestic league games from now until the end of the season.”

The Franco-Malian tactician also disclosed that a different approach will be adopted for Nigeria’s high-profile international friendlies in June against Poland national football team and Portugal national football team.

“For the big warm-up games in June against Poland and Portugal, I will feature my first team players. These are games that can push up the global ranking if we win them,” he added.

The Unity Cup and upcoming friendlies are expected to play a key role in shaping the Super Eagles squad ahead of future international competitions.

Former Nigerian international Eric Ejiofor has expressed confidence that Arthur Okonkwo will provide strong competition for Stanley Nwabali and Maduka Okoye in the Super Eagles, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

Okonkwo, who was born in Camden to Nigerian parents, previously represented England at the youth level during his time at Arsenal, featuring prominently for their Under-18 side before switching allegiance to Nigeria. He currently plies his trade with Wrexham.

Speaking in an interview with Brila FM, Ejiofor described Okonkwo’s inclusion as a positive development for the national team, particularly as Nigeria continues to rebuild towards the 2030 FIFA World Cup.

“It’s a good one for the Nigerian team because we want healthy competition for the position. For an additional goalkeeper, it will make everybody sit up,” Ejiofor said.

He added that the presence of more quality goalkeepers would make selection easier for the coaching crew, with performance in training expected to determine who earns the starting role.

“The goalkeeper coach will not have any issue because the goalkeeper who performs well in training will man the goalpost. It’s an opportunity for us to see Okonkwo, and if he can become the number one, no problem,” he added.

Ejiofor further stressed that increased competition would raise standards within the squad, ensuring that no player becomes complacent in such a crucial position.

“Once you don’t give your best in that position, then you know somebody else is there to claim that position from you. So it’s a good one for the Super Eagles.”

Players of Nigeria’s Super Eagles have reportedly expressed dissatisfaction over the non-payment of appearance fees following their recent international friendlies in Turkey, NigeriaSoccernet.com understands.

The team secured a 2–1 win against Iran national football team before settling for a 2–2 draw with Jordan national football team in Antalya, in matches organised by the Jordan Football Association.

Despite the fixtures reportedly generating appearance fees payable to the Nigeria Football Federation, players are said to have yet to receive their entitlements, leading to frustration within the squad.

A source close to the team revealed that the situation has reignited concerns over delayed payments.

“The players were disappointed again with the NFF. They feel there have been too many promises without fulfillment,” the source said.

It is understood that each player is entitled to $2,000 per match for their participation in the friendlies.

Top officials of the NFF, including president Ibrahim Gusau, Technical Committee chairman Sharif Inuwa Ahlan, and Secretary General Mohammed Sanusi, were present in Turkey during the matches.

The development marks the latest in a series of disputes involving player payments and allowances, an issue that has repeatedly surfaced within the national team setup in recent years.

Atlético Madrid have reportedly expressed concerns over the handling of Ademola Lookman during the recent FIFA international window, Nigeriasoccernet.com understands.

The Madrid-based club is said to be unhappy with the forward’s heavy involvement in Nigeria’s friendly matches, questioning the decision-making of the Nigeria Football Federation regarding his workload.

Sources close to the club indicate that Atlético’s technical and medical teams were particularly worried about the physical demands placed on the player, especially given the limited competitive significance of the fixtures. The concern centres on the risk of fatigue and potential injury at a critical stage of the European season.

Lookman, who remains a key figure for both club and country, featured prominently during the international break, further intensifying concerns about load management and player welfare.

Atlético’s position highlights the ongoing tension between club sides and national teams over player usage, particularly in non-competitive matches. Clubs are increasingly calling for stricter monitoring of player workload to protect fitness levels and long-term availability.

The NFF is yet to issue an official response, but the situation is expected to prompt further discussions around player welfare and international commitments ahead of future FIFA windows.

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.

Former Shooting Stars coach Fatai Amoo has praised Emmanuel Fernandez for his standout performance in Nigeria’s international friendly against Jordan national football team, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The Rangers defender marked the occasion by scoring his first goal for the Super Eagles in their 2-2 draw on Tuesday, his second appearance for the senior national team after featuring against Iran national football team.

Reacting to the display, Amoo commended the young defender’s impact, highlighting his hunger and determination.

“I am impressed with the new boy, Fernandez. Scoring in his second appearance for the Super Eagles simply shows the hunger and determination in him,” Amoo said.

The experienced tactician also pointed to Fernandez’s composure, aerial strength, and attacking contribution as key qualities that make him a valuable addition to the squad.

“He has proven his worth with the team, and I know he will be a big asset for the Super Eagles. His composure and aerial prowess make me feel Fernandez has come to stay with this team,” he added.

Fernandez’s early performances have already strengthened competition within the squad, as the Super Eagles continue to build towards future international assignments.

Philip Otele has described representing the Super Eagles as a dream come true following his international debut, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The 26-year-old made his first appearance for the three-time African champions in the friendly clash against Jordan national football team on Tuesday night, coming on as a late substitute for Frank Onyeka.

Reflecting on the milestone, Otele expressed pride at finally achieving one of his long-held ambitions.

“For me, it was a dream come true. We always play football to represent the national team, so I always wanted to play for Nigeria, and it was a big moment for me and my family,” he said.

The winger also emphasized the importance of international football in a player’s career, noting that it brings added motivation and exposure.

“I am proud of this moment. As a player, when you play for your national team, it gives you that extra boost, and it also means a lot because of the tournaments you get to play,” he added.

Otele further revealed his deep connection to the national team, stating that he has followed the Super Eagles for years and considers his inclusion in the squad a significant personal achievement.

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.

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.

Trabzonspor have congratulated Chibuike Nwaiwu following his first-ever invitation to the Super Eagles, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

Nwaiwu received a late call-up on Thursday as a replacement for injured Calvin Bassey, the Fulham centre-back. The 22-year-old is now in contention to make his debut for Nigeria in the friendly clash against Iran.

The Turkish Super Lig side took to social media to express their support for the defender ahead of the encounter.

“We wish our player Chibuike Nwaiwu, who will be making his debut for the Nigerian National Team, all the best! ?,” the club posted on X.

https://twitter.com/Trabzonspor/status/2037195417104920817?s=20

Nwaiwu joined Trabzonspor from Austrian outfit Wolfsberger AC in January and has since made a steady impact. He has featured in 10 league matches for the Black Sea Storm, registering two goals and one assist.

Super Eagles head coach Éric Chelle has handed a late invitation to Chibuike Nwaiwu as a replacement for injured Calvin Bassey ahead of the upcoming international friendlies, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

Nwaiwu, who currently plays for Trabzonspor, was drafted into the squad following Bassey’s withdrawal due to injury. The call-up represents a major milestone for the former Enyimba defender, as he earns his maiden invitation to the senior national team.

The 21-year-old has been closely monitored by Chelle in recent months, with his performances in Turkey attracting attention and fast-tracking his inclusion in the squad.

Nwaiwu is now expected to link up with the team ahead of Nigeria’s friendly fixtures against Iran and Jordan, as the Super Eagles intensify preparations for upcoming international competitions.

Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye has revealed the reasons behind his decision to decline Nigeria’s invitation to the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, despite the team going on to secure a third-place finish, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

Speaking in an interview with German outlet Kicker, the Udinese shot-stopper explained that concerns over his fitness, form, and timing influenced his choice after a spell away from competitive action.

Okoye disclosed that he had been out for around two months due to a betting-related suspension and felt it was important to focus on regaining full match fitness at club level. He also noted that, at the time, he was not the first-choice goalkeeper for the national team, making the decision easier.

The 24-year-old added that staying back allowed him to repay the faith shown in him by Udinese during a challenging period in his career.

Okoye also highlighted concerns about the scheduling of the Africa Cup of Nations, pointing out that its placement within the European football calendar often puts players in difficult positions between club and country commitments.

He has since rejoined the Super Eagles squad ahead of their upcoming international friendlies in Turkey, where Éric Chelle is expected to hand him minutes as part of preparations for future competitions.

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.

Nigeria's national football team has begun assembling in Antalya, Turkey, ahead of their upcoming international friendlies, with 13 players already in camp as of Tuesday night, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

Among the early arrivals are Alex Iwobi, Paul Onuachu, Moses Simon, and Frank Onyeka, alongside Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, Collins Yira Sor, Philip Otele, Francis Uzoho, Adebayo Adeleye, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Bruno Onyemaechi, Emmanuel Fernandez, and Semi Ajayi.

Team officials also confirmed that Samuel Chukwueze and Maduka Okoye were en route and expected to link up with the squad early Wednesday.

The team is camped at the Bellis Deluxe Hotel, where preparations will intensify once the full 23-man squad is assembled.

The players are scheduled to hold their first training session on Wednesday at 4:00 p.m. local time.

Nigeria will face the Iran national football team on March 27 before taking on the Jordan national football team on March 31 in their second friendly.

The fixtures represent the team’s first matches since finishing third at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

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.