By Kolawole Omotola
Nigeria’s senior national team, the Super Eagles, have unveiled a 23-man squad for their upcoming international friendlies against Iran and Jordan, with star striker Victor Osimhen notably absent from the list.
Head coach Eric Chelle released the squad ahead of a four-nation invitational tournament scheduled to hold in Turkey during the international break. The competition,
which also features Costa Rica, marks the team’s first gathering since finishing third at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
The Super Eagles will use the tournament as part of efforts to rebuild and strengthen the squad following their failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Despite retaining a core group of regulars, including captain Wilfred Ndidi, Ademola Lookman, Alex Iwobi and Samuel Chukwueze, the omission of Osimhen has dominated discussions.
The Napoli forward is currently sidelined due to injury concerns after recent club engagements in Europe.
Also missing from the squad is first-choice goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, who remains without a club, while defender Ola Aina continues recovery from injury.
In a move aimed at refreshing the team, Chelle handed maiden call-ups to Emmanuel Fernandez, Philip Otele and Collins Yira Sor, while goalkeeper Adebayo Adeleye returns to the fold as a replacement option.
Nigeria will face Iran on March 27 before taking on Jordan on March 31 as preparations intensify for future international competitions.
Full Squad
Goalkeepers: Maduka Okoye, Adebayo Adeleye, Francis UzohoDefenders: 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
The friendlies are expected to provide the technical crew with an opportunity to assess new players and refine tactics ahead of upcoming qualifiers.
