Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has named an ambitious 27-man squad for the upcoming Unity Cup tournament in London. The selection features a strong contingent from the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) with seven home-based stars making the cut. Chelle aims to balance domestic talent with seasoned European regulars for the international mini-tournament.
Ikorodu City dominates the local call-ups with the trio of Michael Atata, Tosin Oyedokun, and Aderemi Adeoye earning invitations. Reigning league champions Enugu Rangers have two representatives in defenders Chibueze Oputa and Obinna Igboke. Shooting Stars midfielder Ayobami Junior and Rivers United defender Elias Ochobi complete the impressive list of home-based professionals.
The squad also features key international regulars to provide leadership and stability. Team captain Wilfred Ndidi headlines the midfield section alongside defensive stalwart Igoh Ogbu and winger Moses Simon. Mainstay goalkeeper Francis Uzoho also retains his spot in the team. Additionally, Chelle handed highly anticipated maiden call-ups to Wrexham goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo and Millwall forward Femi Azeez.
Nigeria enters the tournament as the defending champions and will look to retain their crown. The Super Eagles open their campaign against the Warriors of Zimbabwe at The Valley stadium on Tuesday, May 26. A victory in the high-stakes clash will propel the West African giants into the final. They would face the winner of the secondary semifinal matchup between Jamaica and India.
The tournament offers Chelle an excellent opportunity to test tactical variations and evaluate bubble players. Winning the competition would heavily boost squad morale ahead of upcoming competitive qualification fixtures. The entire delegation is expected to arrive at their London training base camp early this week.
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