Super Eagles Coach Eric Chelle Plans to Invite Four New Players Ahead of Nigeria's Friendlies Against Portugal and Poland
Super Eagles manager Eric Chelle is reportedly set to invite four new players to the Nigerian national team for the upcoming international friendlies in June 2026. Nigeria will face Poland on June 3 and Portugal on June 10 in matches designed to prepare the squad after failing to qualify for the 2026 World Cup. These friendlies are crucial as Chelle aims to build a competitive team for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers starting in September.
Background on Nigeria's Recent Performances and Upcoming Matches
Nigeria will not participate in the World Cup for the second consecutive time, following a heartbreaking loss to DR Congo in the African Playoffs last November. The match ended 4-3 on penalties after a tense showdown in Morocco. Subsequently, DR Congo went on to beat Jamaica 1-0 in the intercontinental playoffs to secure a spot in the 2026 World Cup hosted by Mexico.
In more recent action, the Super Eagles participated in a four-nation invitational tournament in Amman, Turkey. They secured a 2-1 victory over Iran and played to a 2-2 draw against Jordan. These performances have provided Chelle with insights into the team's strengths and areas for improvement.
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has organized the friendlies against World Cup-bound teams Poland and Portugal to offer valuable experience. The match against Poland will be held at the PGE Narodowy Stadium in Warsaw, while the exact venue for the Portugal clash remains unconfirmed, according to NFF officials.
Chelle's Strategy and New Player Invitations
Eric Chelle, who previously coached Mali, has initiated plans to introduce fresh talent to the Super Eagles squad. During the matches against Iran and Jordan in March, he gave debuts to players such as Emmanuel Fernandez, Chibuike Nwaiwu, Yira Sor, and Philip Otele. Now, he is focusing on four additional players who could make their international debuts in the upcoming friendlies.
- Kareem Tunde (Levante): The 20-year-old has made 14 league appearances in the 2025/26 La Liga season, starting most matches. He registered his first assist in Levante's 4-2 win over Real Oviedo, showcasing his growing confidence at the top level. Reports indicate that Tunde is on Chelle's radar and could soon earn a call-up.
- Femi Azeez (Millwall): Azeez has been in outstanding form for Millwall in the EFL Championship, recording eight goals and eight assists in 30 matches during the 2025/26 season. The 24-year-old, formerly of Reading, scored in back-to-back games against Preston North End and Bristol City. His performances have attracted interest from Ipswich Town, and he is seen as a potential replacement for Wilfred Ndidi in the Super Eagles setup.
- Marcus Abraham (Estrela da Amadora): Abraham, 26, is expected to return to the national team under Chelle. He received his first call-up under former coach Gernot Rohr in 2021 and made his debut against Cameroon. Currently playing in Portugal, Abraham has scored five goals in 25 appearances this season, winning over fans with his consistent performances.
- Anthony Dennis (Goztepe): Dennis earned his first international call-up ahead of the 2025 AFCON but did not make the final 23-man squad. The 21-year-old midfielder played a key role in helping Goztepe secure promotion back to the Turkish Super Lig last season. This campaign, he has scored five goals and is in contention for selection ahead of Nigeria's friendlies in June.
NFF's Response and Contract Situation
The Nigeria Football Federation has responded to Eric Chelle's 19-point demand for a new contract through its general secretary, Dr. Mohammed Sanusi. The federation remains calm about the manager's future, expressing confidence that he will fulfill the final year of his current contract. This stability allows Chelle to focus on team development without immediate contractual distractions.
As Nigeria prepares for these high-profile friendlies, the inclusion of new players signals a strategic shift towards youth and innovation. Fans and analysts will be watching closely to see how these talents integrate into the squad and contribute to Nigeria's football aspirations on the international stage.
