Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has made bold changes to his squad ahead of Nigeria’s upcoming international friendlies, leaving out some of the team’s biggest stars, including Victor Osimhen and first-choice goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali.
The Nigeria Football Federation on Wednesday unveiled a 23-man list for the two fixtures, with Chelle blending experienced players with a number of fresh faces.
Captain Wilfred Ndidi will lead the team, supported in midfield by Alex Iwobi, while Ademola Lookman is set to spearhead the attack in Osimhen’s absence.
Several players from the recent AFCON pool were also omitted, including goalkeeper Amas Obasogie; defenders Chidozie Awaziem and Ryan Alebiosu; midfielders Muhammed Usman, Ebenezer Akinsanmiro and Tochukwu Nnadi; as well as forwards Salim Fago Lawal and Cyriel Dessers.
Nigeria will face Iran on March 27 before taking on Jordan on March 31, with both matches scheduled to be played in Antalya, Turkey. The fixtures were initially set for Amman but were relocated due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
In goal, Maduka Okoye returns and is expected to compete for the starting spot, alongside Adeleye Adebayo, while Francis Uzoho completes the goalkeeping options.
The defence features a mix of experience and new talent, with Semi Ajayi recalled, while Scotland-based Emmanuel Fernandez earns his first senior call-up. Midfield responsibilities will be handled by a familiar core including Ndidi, Iwobi and Frank Onyeka, with support from Raphael Onyedika and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru.
In attack, Chelle has selected a variety of options such as Lookman, Samuel Chukwueze, Moses Simon, Chidera Ejuke, Paul Onuachu and Akor Adams. Germany-based forward Philip Otele and Belgium-based Collins Yira Sor have also received their maiden invitations following impressive club performances.
The squad reflects a strategic mix of continuity and experimentation as Chelle prepares to assess options ahead of future competitive fixtures.
