By Manny Ita –
Nigeria’s senior men’s national football team, the Super Eagles, has announced a 23‑man squad for the upcoming international friendly matches against Iran on 27 March and Jordan on 31 March 2026 in Antalya, Turkey. The selection was made by head coach Eric Chelle, who has entrusted several established stars with leadership roles while also introducing fresh talent to the senior setup.
Scotland‑based defender Emmanuel Fernandez, Germany‑based forward Philip Otele, and KRC Genk winger Collins Yira Sor have earned their first senior call‑ups to the national team, reflecting the coach’s willingness to explore new options and broaden the team’s depth ahead of future competitive fixtures.
The squad announcement also brought attention for the notable absence of star striker Victor Osimhen and first‑choice goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, both of whom were left out of the list. Coach Chelle’s decision underscores a tactical experiment that blends experience with youth and evaluates alternate configurations in match conditions.
The squad retains key experienced performers, with captain Wilfred Ndidi, Alex Iwobi, and Ademola Lookman expected to anchor the midfield and attack. Goalkeeper duties will be handled by Maduka Okoye, Adeleye Adebayo, and Francis Uzoho, while defensive stability is provided by seasoned backs such as Calvin Bassey, Bright Osayi‑Samuel, and Bruno Onyemaechi.
In the forward line, alongside debutants Otele and Yira Sor, the team features Samuel Chukwueze, Moses Simon, Paul Onuachu, and Akor Adams, offering a mix of pace, experience, and goal threats to challenge Iran and Jordan.
Coach Chelle’s squad announcement comes as the Super Eagles continue preparations in a crucial phase of international competition buildup, using the March friendlies to fine‑tune tactics and player combinations ahead of more demanding engagements later in the year.
