Super Eagles coach Éric Chelle has named a strong 25-man squad for Nigeria’s international friendlies against Poland and Portugal, with star forwards Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman leading the team for the high-profile European matches, Footynaija reports.
Nigeria will face Poland in Warsaw on 3 June before travelling to Leiria to play Portugal seven days later in what is expected to be one of the Super Eagles’ toughest tests under Chelle so far.
The squad announcement shows Chelle’s intention to field his strongest available team as he continues preparations for future competitive fixtures. The 25-man list includes three goalkeepers, seven defenders, seven midfielders and eight forwards.
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One of the major talking points is the return of Maduka Okoye, who is expected to battle for the number one shirt alongside Francis Uzoho and Arthur Okonkwo. The Wrexham goalkeeper, who previously played for Arsenal, continues his rapid rise after also earning a place in Nigeria’s Unity Cup squad.
Chelle has also retained experienced defenders including Calvin Bassey, Semi Ajayi and Bright Osayi-Samuel, while Rangers defender Emmanuel Fernandez keeps his place after recent impressive performances.
In midfield, captain Wilfred Ndidi will again provide leadership alongside Alex Iwobi, who has recovered from injury after recently returning to action for Fulham against Wolverhampton Wanderers.
The biggest strength of the squad appears to be in attack. Two former African Footballers of the Year Osimhen and Lookman lead a dangerous frontline that also includes Samuel Chukwueze, Moses Simon, Paul Onuachu, Terem Moffi and Akor Adams.
Also included is Plymouth Argyle forward Owen Oseni, who recently committed his international future to Nigeria despite interest from Ireland and Ivory Coast.
The two friendlies are expected to give Chelle a clearer picture of his squad depth against strong European opposition, especially with Portugal already preparing for the next FIFA World Cup.
Super Eagles 25-man squad for Poland and Portugal
Goalkeepers: Maduka Okoye, Francis Uzoho, Arthur Okonkwo
Defenders: Bruno Onyemaechi, Zaidu Sanusi, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Semi Ajayi, Calvin Bassey, Emmanuel Fernandez, Igoh Ogbu
Midfielders: Alex Iwobi, Frank Onyeka, Wilfred Ndidi, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, Raphael Onyedika, Tochukwu Nnadi, Alhassan Yusuf
Forwards: Ademola Lookman, Samuel Chukwueze, Moses Simon, Paul Onuachu, Akor Adams, Victor Osimhen, Terem Moffi, Owen Oseni
