Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has named a 23-man squad for Nigeria’s international friendlies against Iran and Jordan, dropping star striker Victor Osimhen and first-choice goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali in a bold selection statement.
The Franco-Malian tactician announced his first squad on Wednesday through the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF). Captain Wilfred Ndidi, Alex Iwobi, and Ademola Lookman headline the list.
Osimhen’s absence stems from a deliberate rest strategy. Chelle opted to manage the Galatasaray striker’s physical workload despite his prolific form in Turkey. Nwabali missed out due to recent inactivity following the termination of his contract with South Africa’s Chippa United.
Maduka Okoye returns as the most experienced goalkeeper, competing with recalled Adebayo Adeleye and Francis Uzoho for the starting role.
Three debutants earn first call-ups
Chelle has handed maiden invitations to three players. Scotland-based defender Emmanuel Fernandez, Germany-based forward Philip Otele, and Genk winger Collins Yira Sor all received their first senior call-ups.
Adebayo Adeleye returns to the squad after a spell in Greece, adding competition in the goalkeeping department.
Full 23-man squad
Goalkeepers: Maduka Okoye, Adebayo Adeleye, Francis Uzoho.
Defenders: Calvin Bassey, Semi Ajayi, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Bruno Onyemaechi, Zaidu Sanusi, Igoh Ogbu, Emmanuel Fernandez.
Midfielders: Alex Iwobi, Frank Onyeka, Wilfred Ndidi, Raphael Onyedika, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru.
Forwards: Ademola Lookman, Samuel Chukwueze, Moses Simon, Chidera Ejuke, Paul Onuachu, Akor Adams, Philip Otele, Collins Yira Sor.
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Matches moved to Turkey
The Super Eagles will face Iran on March 27 at 4 p.m., before taking on Jordan on March 31 at 8 p.m.. Both fixtures were originally scheduled for Amman, Jordan, but were relocated to Antalya, Turkey, following the outbreak of military conflict in the Middle East.
The matches give Chelle valuable preparation time ahead of Nigeria’s crucial qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe later this year.
