Eric Chelle unveils 27-player squad for Iran, Jordan friendlies
Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has named a strong 23-man squad ahead of Nigeria’s international friendlies against Iran and Jordan, with captain Wilfred Ndidi, Alex Iwobi, and African Player of the Year Ademola Lookman headlining the list.
Originally scheduled to take place in Amman, Jordan, both fixtures have now been relocated to Antalya, Turkey, following rising military tensions in the Middle East. The Super Eagles will face Iran on Friday, March 27, before taking on Jordan on Tuesday, March 31, with both matches set for Antalya.
Chelle’s selection blends experience with fresh faces. Regulars such as Maduka Okoye, Ola Aina, Frank Onyeka, Moses Simon, Samuel Chukwueze, and Paul Onuachu all make the cut, maintaining a core that fans are familiar with.
There is also a spotlight on new opportunities, as Scotland-based defender Emmanuel Oluwasegun Fernandez earns his first call-up. Germany-based forward Philip Otele and Genk winger Collins Yira Sor, a former youth international, are also handed chances to impress on the senior stage.
Meanwhile, goalkeeper Adeleye Adebayo returns to the squad, adding depth and competition between the sticks.
With the friendlies serving as crucial preparation ground, Chelle will be keen to assess both new entrants and established stars as the team continues to build chemistry ahead of upcoming competitive fixtures.
Full Squad List
Goalkeepers: Maduka Okoye (Udinese), Adeleye Adebayo (Volos), Francis Uzoho (Omonia)
Defenders: Calvin Bassey (Fulham), Oluwasemilogo Ajayi (Hull City), Bright Osayi-Samuel (Birmingham City), Bruno Onyemaechi (Olympiakos), Zaidu Sanusi (Porto), Igoh Ogbu (Slavia Prague), Emmanuel Fernandez (Rangers)
Midfielders: Alex Iwobi (Fulham), Frank Onyeka (Coventry City), Wilfred Ndidi (Besiktas), Raphael Onyedika (Club Brugge), Fisayo Dele-Bashiru (Lazio)
Forwards: Ademola Lookman (Atletico Madrid), Samuel Chukwueze (Fulham), Moses Simon (Paris FC), Chidera Ejuke (Sevilla), Paul Onuachu (Trabzonspor), Akor Adams (Sevilla), Philip Otele (Hamburger SV), Collins Yira Sor (Genk)
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