One of the major talking points from Eric Chelle’s latest Super Eagles squad announcement is the inclusion of seven players from the Nigeria Premier Football League ahead of the 2026 Unity Cup, Footynaija.com reports.
Following growing calls from fans and pundits for more opportunities to be handed to home-based talents, Chelle responded by allocating a significant portion of his squad to standout performers from the domestic scene.
Ikorodu City lead the way with three representatives in the squad, Michael Atata, Aderemi Adeoye and Tosin Oyedokun while NPFL leaders Rangers International boast two invitees in Chibueze Oputa and Obinna Igboke.
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Rivers United’s Elias Ochobi and Shooting Stars playmaker Ayobami Junior complete the local contingent.
In this piece, we take a closer look at the seven NPFL stars who successfully played their way into Chelle’s plans for the Unity Cup.
7. Michael Atata (Ikorodu City)
Atata has undoubtedly been one of the standout goalkeepers in the NPFL this season. The Ikorodu City shot-stopper has kept an impressive 16 clean sheets and played a crucial role in his side’s remarkable campaign.
Calm under pressure and blessed with excellent reflexes, the highly-rated goalkeeper has consistently delivered match-winning performances for the Lagos-based outfit. His invitation to the national team comes as little surprise after months of continued brilliance between the sticks.
6. Elias Ochobi (Rivers United)
Another exciting inclusion in Chelle’s squad is Rivers United defender Elias Ochobi, who has quietly established himself as one of the most reliable young defenders in the NPFL.
Widely known for his physicality and relentless work rate, Ochobi has become an important figure for Rivers United this term. His defensive awareness and composure on the ball could provide Chelle with another solid option at the back during the Unity Cup.
5. Chibueze Oputa (Rangers International)
Oputa has enjoyed a breakthrough campaign with Rangers and has emerged as arguably the most productive attacking full-back in the NPFL this season.
The young right-back currently boasts six assists, the highest tally recorded by any defender in the division, underlining his quality in the final third.
4. Obinna Igboke (Rangers International)
Another Rangers star rewarded for his consistency is Obinna Igboke, who has been one of the Flying Antelopes’ most dependable performers this season.
The versatile defender has featured in 27 of Rangers’ 37 league matches so far, playing a key role in their push for domestic success.
Now, the Super Eagles invitation offers him the perfect opportunity to crown an impressive campaign with his maiden senior international appearance.
3. Aderemi Adeoye (Ikorodu City)
Adeoye’s inclusion may have raised a few eyebrows initially, but the young midfielder has clearly done enough to convince Chelle he deserves a closer look.
Although his opportunities have been somewhat limited this season, the talented midfielder has shown flashes of quality that appear to have caught the attention of the Super Eagles coaching crew.
2. Ayobami Junior (Shooting Stars)
One of the most creative players in the NPFL this season, Ayobami Junior has been pulling the strings for Shooting Stars with remarkable consistency.
The gifted playmaker currently leads the assist charts with 13 assists, highlighting his vision, delivery and ability to unlock opposition defences. His creativity could hand the Super Eagles an extra dimension in attack during the Unity Cup.
1. Tosin Oyedokun (Ikorodu City)
Completing the list is Ikorodu City forward Tosin Oyedokun, another player who has enjoyed an impressive domestic campaign.
The highly-rated attacker has registered four goals and four assists this season, displaying his ability to both score and create chances.
Comfortable operating across multiple attacking positions, Oyedokun’s versatility and direct style of play could make him a very useful option for Chelle during the tournament.
