Unity Cup: Chelle unveils Super Eagles squads for Zimbabwe clash, Poland and Portugal friendlies

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Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has released two separate squads as Nigeria prepares for a busy international period, headlined by the defence of their Unity Cup title and two prestigious friendlies in Europe.

Unity Cup Squad (27 players)

Chelle has named a 27-man squad for the 2026 Unity Cup, which will be held at The Valley, home of Charlton Athletic, from May 26 to 30.

The Super Eagles will kick off their title defence against Zimbabwe on Tuesday, May 26. The winner of that encounter will advance to the final to face either Jamaica or India.

The squad features a blend of established internationals and fresh faces. Key names include:
Captain Wilfred Ndidi

Goalkeeper Francis Uzoho

Defenders Bruno Onyemaechi and Igoh Ogbu

Forwards Moses Simon, Akor Adams, and Terem Moffi

Several players earned their first national team call-ups: goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo, defender Emmanuel Fernandez, midfielders Raphael Onyedika, Tochukwu Nnadi, and Ebenezer Akinsanmiro, as well as forward Rafiu Durosinmi.

Home-based talents have also been rewarded with inclusions: Michael Atata, Elias Ochobi, Chibueze Oputa, Obinna Igboke, Aderemi Adeoye, Ayobami Junior, and Tosin Oyedokun.

Friendlies Squad (24 players)
For the high-profile matches in Europe, Chelle has selected a 24-man squad packed with star power.

The group is led by top names including Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, Alex Iwobi, Calvin Bassey, and Paul Onuachu.

Nigeria will face Poland on June 3 at the PGE Narodowy Stadium in Warsaw, before taking on Portugal on June 10 at the Estadio Dr. Magalhães Pessoa in Leiria.

The double-header serves as vital preparation for the Super Eagles, who are also gearing up for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.

Nigeria have been drawn in a group alongside Madagascar, Tanzania, and Guinea-Bissau.

Chelle’s selections reflect a balance between continuity and giving opportunities to emerging talents ahead of a crucial period for Nigerian football.

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