Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has handed senior national team invitations to 13 players as he continues to widen his options ahead of Nigeria’s upcoming international engagements.
The latest invitees represent a mix of young and emerging Nigerian talents playing across Europe and the Middle East, with the list covering goalkeepers, defenders, midfielders and forwards.
Some of the players have been included in Nigeria’s squad for the international friendly against Russia, while others are expected to be involved in the Super Eagles’ 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying fixtures against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau.
13 New Super Eagles Invitees
Samuel James – The 20-year-old goalkeeper currently plays for Finnish club SJK.
Chibuzo Nwoko – A 20-year-old central midfielder, Nwoko plays for Fulham after previously developing in Chelsea’s youth system.
Isaac James – The 22-year-old defender is capable of operating in multiple defensive positions and currently features for Portuguese side Alverca.
Victory Akpe – The 19-year-old centre-back plays for Swiss club Basel.
Stephen Michael – Michael is currently on the books of Danish club Vendsyssel FF.
Igor Wilfred – The 21-year-old midfielder plays for Norwegian club Kristiansund.
Abdulrasaq Popoola – The 19-year-old midfielder represents Al-Wasl in the United Arab Emirates.
Moses Usor – The 24-year-old winger plays for Austrian club LASK.
Mubarak Suleiman – The 19-year-old attacking midfielder is based at Czech club Slavia Prague.
Umar Abubakar – The 20-year-old forward plays for Portuguese side Famalicão.
George Ilenikhena – The forward currently represents Saudi Pro League club Al-Ittihad.
Peter Edokpolor – The 19-year-old forward plays for Portuguese giants Benfica.
Umar Abdullahi – The 19-year-old striker currently plays for Czech club Hradec Králové.
The influx of new players gives Chelle an opportunity to assess emerging Nigerian talent alongside established Super Eagles players, including Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, Alex Iwobi, Wilfred Ndidi and Moses Simon.
The expanded pool could also provide the coach with additional options as Nigeria prepares for its forthcoming international fixtures and continues preparations for the 2027 AFCON qualifying campaign.
How did this story make you feel?
Join the conversation
Share a thoughtful response. Submissions may be reviewed before appearing.
