By By Elizabeth Ugbo
Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has announced separate squads for Nigeria’s Unity Cup campaign and the international friendlies against Poland and Portugal in June. The squads reveal a mix of experienced internationals, new invitees and selected Nigeria Premier Football League players as Nigeria prepares for both immediate competition and the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations. The team will face Zimbabwe in London on May 26 before travelling to Europe for matches against Poland on June 3 and Portugal on June 10.
Chelle Blends Experience With New Faces
For the Unity Cup in London, Chelle retained several established players while opening the door for emerging talents and home-based stars.
Among the headline inclusions is goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo, who recently switched international allegiance from England to Nigeria.
Defenders Emmanuel Fernandez and Igoh Ogbu also earned places, alongside midfielders Raphael Onyedika, Tochukwu Nnadi and Ebenezer Akinsanmiro.
Striker Rafiu Durosinmi received a call-up as Chelle continues to widen his player pool.
Several NPFL players also secured invitations, including Michael Atata, Elias Ochobi, Chibueze Oputa, Obinna Igboke, Aderemi Adeoye, Ayobami Junior and Tosin Oyedokun.
Full Unity Cup Squad
Goalkeepers
- Francis Uzoho
- Arthur Okonkwo
- Michael Atata
Defenders
- Bruno Onyemaechi
- Emmanuel Fernandez
- Chibuike Nwaiwu
- Igoh Ogbu
- Obinna Igboke
- Elias Ochobi
- Chibueze Oputa
Midfielders
- Wilfred Ndidi
- Raphael Onyedika
- Tochukwu Nnadi
- Ebenezer Akinsanmiro
- Alhassan Yusuf
- Aderemi Adeoye
- Samson Tijani
- Ayobami Junior
- Tosin Oyedokun
Forwards
- Moses Simon
- Akor Adams
- Philip Otele
- Owen Oseni
- Zadok Abu Yohanna
- Terem Moffi
- Rafiu Durosinmi
- Femi Azeez
Star Players Return for Poland and Portugal Friendlies
For the glamour friendlies against Poland and Portugal, Chelle recalled several key Super Eagles stars.
Attackers Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman and Samuel Chukwueze headline the list.
Midfield regulars Alex Iwobi, Frank Onyeka and Wilfred Ndidi also return.
Defensively, Calvin Bassey strengthens the back line.
Full Squad for Poland and Portugal Friendlies
Goalkeepers
- Maduka Okoye
- Arthur Okonkwo
- Francis Uzoho
Defenders
- Semi Ajayi
- Calvin Bassey
- Bright Osayi-Samuel
- Bruno Onyemaechi
- Zaidu Sanusi
- Igoh Ogbu
- Emmanuel Fernandez
Midfielders
- Alex Iwobi
- Frank Onyeka
- Wilfred Ndidi
- Raphael Onyedika
- Fisayo Dele-Bashiru
- Tochukwu Nnadi
- Alhassan Yusuf
Forwards
- Ademola Lookman
- Samuel Chukwueze
- Moses Simon
- Paul Onuachu
- Akor Adams
- Victor Osimhen
- Terem Moffi
Super Eagles Continue AFCON 2027 Preparation
The Poland and Portugal fixtures form part of Nigeria’s long-term preparation for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.
Nigeria have already been grouped with Madagascar, Tanzania and Guinea-Bissau.
Meanwhile, the Unity Cup offers Chelle another opportunity to evaluate emerging talent and build squad depth.
