The Super Eagles of Nigeria are gearing up to welcome back key players to their ranks as they prepare for a crucial double-header of international friendlies against Saudi Arabia and Mozambique in Portugal later this month, MySportDab reports
The return of star players, including Kenneth Omeruo, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Alex Iwobi, and Terem Moffi, is expected to inject experience and dynamism into the squad, a strategic move aimed at fine-tuning the team for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches.
Head Coach Jose Santos Peseiro, who is at the helm of the Super Eagles, has made strategic selections, carefully handpicking players to bolster the squad’s strength and cohesion.
The quartet of Omeruo, Osayi-Samuel, Iwobi, and Moffi was notably absent during the team’s emphatic victory against Sao Tome and Principe in last month’s 2023 AFCON qualifier in Uyo. Their return is eagerly anticipated as they bring a wealth of experience and skills to the squad.
Coach Peseiro, a Portuguese tactician, is keeping faith in the goalkeeping department, with Francis Uzoho, Adebayo Adeleye, and Olorunleke Ojo retaining their spots.
Additionally, uncapped defender Jordan Torunnarigha has been granted a chance to make his mark on the international stage, representing a promising addition to the squad.
The upcoming friendly matches against Saudi Arabia’s Green Falcons and Mozambique’s Mambas are scheduled for October 13 and 16, respectively, and will take place in Portimão, Portugal.
The entire squad is expected to converge in Faro, Portugal, on October 10, gearing up for intense training sessions ahead of these crucial encounters.
These friendlies serve as vital preparation for the Super Eagles as they gear up for the highly anticipated 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches.
Coach Peseiro, with an eye on the future, has also retained the core group of players who showcased their prowess against Sao Tome and Principe.
The squad list for the upcoming friendlies includes:
Goalkeepers:
1. Francis Uzoho (Omonia FC, Cyprus)
2. Olorunleke Ojo (Enyimba FC)
3. Adebayo Adeleye (Hapoel Jerusalem, Israel)
Defenders:
1. Olaoluwa Aina (Nottingham Forest, England)
2. Bright Osayi-Samuel (Fenerbahce FC, Turkey)
3. Jordan Torunarigha (KAA Gent, Belgium)
4. Kenneth Omeruo (Kasimpasa FC, Turkey)
5. Oluwasemilogo Ajayi (West Bromwich Albion, England)
6. Calvin Bassey (Fulham FC, England)
7. Jamilu Collins (Cardiff FC, Wales)
8. Bruno Onyemaechi (Boavista FC, Portugal)
Midfielders:
1. Wilfred Ndidi (Leicester City, England)
2. Raphael Onyedika (Club Brugge, Belgium)
3. Joe Ayodele-Aribo (Southampton FC, England)
4. Frank Onyeka (Brentford FC, England)
5. Alex Iwobi (Fulham FC, England)
6. Fisayo Dele-Bashiru (Hatayaspor FC, Turkey)
Forwards:
1. Kelechi Iheanacho (Leicester City, England)
2. Samuel Chukwueze (AC Milan, Italy)
3. Moses Simon (FC Nantes, France)
4. Ademola Lookman (Atalanta FC, Italy)
5. Victor Osimhen (SSC Napoli, Italy)
6. Taiwo Awoniyi (Nottingham Forest, England)
7. Terem Moffi (OGC Nice, France)
8. Victor Boniface (Bayer Leverkusen, Germany)
As the Super Eagles prepare to reunite with their star players and embark on these critical friendly matches, Nigerian football fans are filled with excitement and anticipation for the future of the national team on the international stage. The coaching staff, led by Coach Peseiro, aims to fine-tune their strategies and foster team cohesion, ensuring that the Super Eagles are in peak form for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers and beyond.
