Eric Chelle has left out forwards Kelechi Iheanacho and Tolu Arokodare from Nigeria’s squad for the upcoming Unity Cup in London, NigeriaSoccernet.com reports.

Iheanacho had been strongly linked with a return to the Nigeria national football team after rediscovering form with Celtic F.C., scoring four goals in his last three matches. Despite the striker’s resurgence, Chelle opted against recalling the experienced forward as he continues reshaping the squad ahead of future international competitions.

Instead, the Franco-Malian tactician handed opportunities to emerging attackers Owen Oseni of Plymouth Argyle F.C. and Rafiu Durosinmi, who currently plays for Pisa Sporting Club.

Arokodare was also omitted despite recently featuring in the Premier League with Wolverhampton Wanderers F.C. Chelle instead recalled Terem Moffi, who recently celebrated a league title success during his loan spell with FC Porto.

Nigeria’s attack for the Unity Cup is expected to revolve around Moffi, Oseni, and Durosinmi, while Femi Azeez has also been included among the attacking options.

Moffi is likely to lead the line in the absence of Victor Osimhen, who is unavailable for the tournament. The striker previously missed Nigeria’s Africa Cup of Nations campaign following inactivity after his exit from OGC Nice amid reported issues with supporters.

Oseni’s invitation is viewed as one of the biggest surprises in the squad. However, sources close to the team revealed Chelle has been impressed by the forward’s pressing ability, movement, aggression, work rate, and attacking output this season.

Nigeria will begin their Unity Cup title defence against Zimbabwe national football team, with a potential final against either India national football team or Jamaica national football team awaiting the winners.

Chelle has repeatedly stated that the tournament will serve as a platform to assess fringe players, home-based talents, and emerging prospects as he continues building his preferred squad for upcoming major competitions.

Nigeria’s Super Eagles will discover their opponents for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers on Tuesday, May 19, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

A total of 48 teams, including co-hosts Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda, will take part in the qualification series. The matches are scheduled to be played across three FIFA international windows in September, October, and November.

The teams will be drawn into 12 groups of four, with the top two sides from each group progressing to the final tournament.

Nigeria head into the qualifiers following a third-place finish at the 2025 tournament in Morocco, and will be aiming to secure qualification for the continental showpiece.

According to the Confederation of African Football, the 2027 AFCON will run from June 19 to July 17, with the opening match scheduled for Saturday, June 19, and the final set for Saturday, July 17.

Head coach of the Super Eagles, Eric Chelle, has stepped up efforts to identify fresh talent from the domestic scene as part of plans to strengthen the national team ahead of upcoming international fixtures, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The Franco-Malian tactician is set to embark on a scouting tour across venues in the Nigerian Premier Football League, where he will closely monitor selected matches in search of players who fit into his long-term vision for the team.

The initiative reflects a broader strategy aimed at expanding Nigeria’s talent pool beyond its traditional dependence on foreign-based players, while giving greater recognition to performers in the domestic league.

Chelle is also expected to use the forthcoming Unity Cup in London as a key evaluation platform, with several home-based players likely to be handed opportunities to stake their claim for regular inclusion in the squad.

Sources within the national team setup indicate that the coach has established a clear recruitment profile, focusing on young players, particularly those under the age of 23, who possess energy, tactical discipline, and the ability to sustain high-intensity pressing throughout matches.

The approach signals a shift towards a more physically demanding and structured playing style, requiring players to contribute effectively in both attacking and defensive phases.

Consistent performances in the NPFL are expected to play a decisive role in securing national team invitations, as Chelle looks to bridge the gap between domestic football and the international stage while reinforcing confidence in the local league as a viable source of talent.

With the squad undergoing gradual evolution, striking the right balance between experienced internationals and emerging home-based prospects remains a key priority, with upcoming tournaments and friendly matches set to shape future selections.

Former Super Eagles head coach Gernot Rohr has opened up on why Michael Olise opted against representing Nigeria at the international level, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

Olise, who currently plays for Bayern Munich, was eligible to feature for multiple nations, including Nigeria, France, Algeria, and England, due to his diverse heritage. Born in Hammersmith, London, to a British-Nigerian father and a Franco-Algerian mother, the winger had several international options early in his career.

Rohr revealed that he first identified Olise in 2019 while the player was still developing in England. The former Nigeria boss, alongside his assistants, monitored the then-Reading FC youngster closely and made efforts to bring him into the Super Eagles setup, including placing him on the standby list ahead of the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.

However, the move never materialised, as Olise declined the opportunity, with Rohr suggesting the player had already set his sights on representing a European national team.

“In 2019, we saw this player and tried to invite him, but he didn’t want to join us because he already believed he had a big future with a European team,” Rohr said on Brila FM.

Olise has since gone on to represent France national football team at the senior level, making his debut in 2024. He was also part of the squad that claimed a silver medal in the football event at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

Rohr admitted that while the player’s potential was evident early on, Nigeria ultimately missed out on securing his international allegiance.

Eric Chelle has arrived in Nigeria as part of plans to assess domestic talent ahead of upcoming international engagements, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The Super Eagles boss is expected to attend selected Nigeria Premier Football League fixtures, where he will closely monitor home-based players pushing for national team opportunities. His visit forms a key part of preparations for the Unity Cup and the African Nations Championship qualifiers.

Chelle has already indicated that standout performers from the domestic league could earn call-ups, particularly for the Unity Cup, which will serve as a platform to test new and fringe players within the national team setup.

The tournament will feature Nigeria alongside Jamaica national football team, Zimbabwe national football team, and India national football team, offering a mix of styles and competitive exposure.

All matches will be played at The Valley, home of Charlton Athletic FC, in South London between May 26 and May 30, 2026.

Beyond the Unity Cup, Chelle’s scouting mission will also contribute to building a competitive squad for CHAN qualifiers, a competition strictly reserved for players active in their domestic leagues, as he continues efforts to strengthen depth within the Super Eagles.

Kaitano Tembo has expressed strong belief in his side’s ability to compete against Nigeria ahead of their Unity Cup semi-final showdown in London, NigeriaSoccernet.com reports.

The newly appointed Zimbabwe national football team head coach acknowledged the quality in Nigeria's national football team squad but insisted his players are ready to rise to the occasion.

“We are approaching it with seriousness and ambition. Playing against strong opposition like Nigeria, as well as Jamaica and India, provides a good test for the team,” Tembo said.

“These are the kind of high-quality matches that help players grow and give us a clear picture of where we are.”

Tembo emphasised that preparation and tactical discipline will be central to his team’s approach as they look to compete effectively against the Super Eagles.

“Nigeria is a top side with quality players, so we respect them. But at the same time, we believe in our squad.

“Preparation will be key, organisation, discipline, and making sure the players understand their roles,” he added.

The Unity Cup, featuring Nigeria, Zimbabwe, Jamaica, and India, is expected to provide a valuable platform for participating teams to assess their squads against varied international opposition.

Emmanuel Fernandez has been named Player of the Year at Rangers F.C. for the 2025/26 season, following a standout debut campaign, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The 24-year-old centre-back, who joined from Peterborough United F.C., overcame an early adjustment period to establish himself as a key figure in the Ibrox defence. His consistent performances, aerial dominance, and growing influence at the back earned him widespread recognition throughout the season.

Fernandez’s impressive displays were further acknowledged with his inclusion in the PFA Scotland Premiership Team of the Year, underlining his rapid rise in Scottish football.

His form has not gone unnoticed beyond Scotland, with reported interest from top clubs including Arsenal F.C., West Ham United F.C., and Feyenoord ahead of the summer transfer window.

At international level, Fernandez’s performances earned him a maiden call-up to the Nigeria national football team. He made his debut on March 27, 2026, in a 2-1 victory over Iran national football team and went on to score his first goal shortly after against Jordan national football team.

The award caps a remarkable first season for the defender, whose rapid development continues to attract attention across Europe.

Head coach of Nigeria’s senior national team, the Super Eagles, Eric Chelle, has completed a coaching recertification course in France as part of efforts to update his professional credentials, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The Franco-Malian tactician has remained in the spotlight in recent months following his impressive outing with the Super Eagles at the Africa Cup of Nations 2025, where he guided the team to a third-place finish.

His performance at the continental tournament earned widespread commendation from stakeholders and fans. Chelle also led the team during a mini invitational tournament held in Turkey shortly after the AFCON campaign, as preparations continued for upcoming international engagements.

Since returning from that assignment, the coach has been in France, where he undertook the recertification programme aimed at revalidating his coaching license in line with modern standards and regulatory requirements.

The move highlights Chelle’s commitment to continuous professional development as he works to strengthen the Super Eagles ahead of future competitions.

The Nigeria Football Federation, alongside several former clubs of ex-Super Eagles striker Michael Eneramo, has paid tribute following news of his death at the age of 40, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

Eneramo, who was born in Kaduna, carved out a respected professional career across Africa and Europe. Renowned for his physical presence, intelligent movement, and consistency in front of goal, he earned admiration from teammates, coaches, and supporters throughout his playing days.

In a statement, the NFF expressed deep sorrow over the passing of the former international, who made 10 appearances for Nigeria and scored three goals. He featured for the Super Eagles during the late 2000s and early 2010s, providing attacking depth during a competitive era for the national team.

Tributes also poured in from clubs he represented, particularly in Turkey. Be?ikta? J.K. described his death as deeply saddening and extended condolences to his family, while Sivasspor praised his professionalism and commitment during his time with the club.

In Tunisia, Espérance Sportive de Tunis delivered a heartfelt tribute, describing Eneramo as one of its most significant former players. The club highlighted his influence during his spell in North Africa, where he became a key figure and built a strong connection with supporters through decisive goals and consistent performances.

Eneramo spent a significant part of his career at Espérance, establishing himself as a dependable attacking option and contributing in crucial matches. His success in Tunisia elevated his profile before he moved to Europe, where he continued his career in the Turkish league.

At international level, Eneramo was part of a generation of Nigerian forwards who provided depth and competition within the national team. While not always a regular starter, he remained a reliable option and contributed important goals when called upon.

His passing has triggered an outpouring of grief across the football community, with tributes reflecting both his impact on the pitch and his reputation as a dedicated professional.

Eric Chelle has confirmed that some financial aspects of his contract with the Nigeria Football Federation are yet to be finalised, even as discussions between both parties continue, NigeriaSoccernet.com reports.

The Franco-Malian tactician, who has been engaged in negotiations with the federation in recent months, made this known while speaking to UK-based Nigerian journalist Osasu Obayiuwana.

Chelle, however, stressed that he remains fully focused on his responsibilities with the national team, leaving contractual matters to his representative.

“Yes, there are financial issues to be discussed and resolved, but I leave them to my agent to handle with the federation,” Chelle said.

“I want to concentrate on the job and the task at hand.”

The Super Eagles boss also revealed plans to closely monitor domestic talent, confirming that he will be in Nigeria to watch matches in the Nigeria Premier Football League as part of efforts to scout players for the national team.

He further highlighted preparations for the upcoming Unity Cup in London, which will serve as part of the team’s build-up to future international engagements.

Despite the ongoing contractual discussions, Chelle’s comments point to stability within the technical setup as he continues to focus on strengthening the squad and delivering results for Nigeria.

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.