Chelle drops Osimhen, Nwabali as Super Eagles unveil squad for Iran, Jordan friendlies

Head coach of the Nigeria national football team, Eric Chelle, has stirred debate after leaving out key stars, including Victor Osimhen and first-choice goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, from his latest squad for upcoming international friendlies.

In a statement released on Wednesday, the Nigeria Football Federation confirmed a 23-man list for fixtures against Iran and Jordan, as the coach blends experienced players with emerging talents.

Captain Wilfred Ndidi returns to marshal the midfield, alongside Alex Iwobi, while Ademola Lookman is expected to spearhead the attack in Osimhen’s absence.

The omission of Osimhen and Nwabali headlines a broader reshuffle from the squad that featured at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, with Chelle keen to test new combinations ahead of the matches.

Also excluded are Amas Obasogie, Chidozie Awaziem, Ryan Alebiosu, Muhammed Usman, Ebenezer Akinsanmiro, Tochukwu Nnadi, Salim Fago Lawal and Cyriel Dessers, all of whom were previously part of the national team pool.

The Super Eagles will face Iran national football team on March 27 before taking on the Jordan national football team on March 31, with both games scheduled to be played in Antalya, Turkey.

Originally slated for Amman, the fixtures were moved due to escalating tensions in the Middle East, prompting organisers to secure a safer alternative venue.

Among notable returns, Maduka Okoye is back in contention and is expected to challenge for the starting role, alongside Adeleye Adebayo and Francis Uzoho in goal.

Defensively, the coach has recalled Semi Ajayi and handed a first senior invitation to Scotland-based Emmanuel Fernandez, as part of efforts to strengthen depth at the back.

The midfield remains anchored by Ndidi, Iwobi and Frank Onyeka, with support from Raphael Onyedika and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru.

In attack, Chelle has spread responsibility across multiple options including Lookman, Samuel Chukwueze, Moses Simon, Chidera Ejuke, Paul Onuachu and Akor Adams.

There are also maiden call-ups for Philip Otele and Collins Yira Sor, both rewarded for impressive club performances in Europe.