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Tag: Super Eagles

Chelle Picks Simon, Musa, Nwabali, Ndidi, 21 Others for Unity Cup Tourney in London

Fola Badmus16 mins

Head Coach Eric Chelle has selected rave-of-the-moment in France, Moses Simon, goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, midfielder Wilfred Ndidi and forward Ahmed Musa among a total of 25 Super Eagles who will execute this month-end’s Unity Cup Tournament in London. Chelle, who admitted that “we’re looking forward to taking part in the Unity Cup as it will give us the chance to try out a few new players in different roles, helping us to strengthen our squad before the matches in September and October,” has included a number of standout Nigeria Premier Football League players in the Unity Cup houseparty. Junior Harrison Nduka, captain of the CHAN-bound Super Eagles B and of champions Remo Stars, will seek a slot in the defence that also has Semi Ajayi, Bruno Onyemaechi, Igoh Ogbu and fellow home-boys Ifeanyi Onyebuchi, Sodiq Ismaila and Waliu Ojetoye, while Papa Daniel Mustapha, Saviour Isaac and Collins Ugwueze will have to contend with Wilfred Ndidi, Frank Onyeka and Chrisantus Uche in midfield. At the fore, Ahmed Musa, Adamu Abubakar and Sikiru Alimi are up against Samuel Chukwueze, Moses Simon, Cyriel Dessers, Nathan Tella, Tolu Arokodare and Kelechi Iheanacho. The Unity Cup Tournament, involving Nigeria, Jamaica, Ghana and Trinidad and Tobago, will be staged at the 17,250-capacity Gtech Community Stadium in Brentford, West London. The tournament will kick off with the first semi-final on Tuesday, 27th May as Trinidad & Tobago tackle Jamaica in the first-ever ‘Trini-Jam’ on UK soil. The following day, three-time African champions Nigeria will take on four-time African champions Ghana in the second semi-final, which will come with all the intrigues and variables of a 74-year rivalry between the two continental giants. All four teams will return on Saturday, 31st May for the grand finale, with the losers of the semi-final fixtures featuring in the third-place game, before the Final to determine The Unity Cup 2025 champions. For the friendly with Russia’s senior men team at the Luzhniki Stadium, Moscow on Friday, 6th June, Chelle has picked a total of 21 players, with captain William Ekong, fellow defenders Olaoluwa Aina and Bright Osayi-Samuel, midfielders Fisayo Dele-Bashiru and Raphael Onyedika, and forwards Victor Boniface and Sadiq Umar joining a number of picks from the Unity Cup cohort. SUPER EAGLES FOR UNITY CUP TOURNAMENT: Goalkeepers: Stanley Nwabali (Chippa United, South Africa); Maduka Okoye (Udinese FC, Italy); Amas Obasogie (Singida Blackstars, Tanzania) Defenders: Bruno Onyemaechi (Olympiacos FC, Greece); Oluwasemilogo Ajayi (West Bromwich Albion, England); Igoh Ogbu (SK Slavia Prague, Czech Republic); Junior Harrison Nduka (Remo Stars); Ifeanyi Onyebuchi (Enugu Rangers); Sodiq Ismaila (Remo Stars); Waliu Ojetoye (Ikorodu City) Midfielders: Wilfred Ndidi (Leicester City, England); Frank Onyeka (Augsburg FC, Germany); Saviour Isaac (Enugu Rangers); Chrisantus Uche (Getafe CF, Spain); Papa Daniel Mustapha (Niger Tornadoes); Collins Ugwueze (Enugu Rangers) Forwards: Samuel Chukwueze (AC Milan, Italy); Kelechi Iheanacho (Middlesbrough FC, England); Simon Moses (FC Nantes, France); Nathan Tella (Bayer Leverkusen, Germany); Cyriel Dessers (Glasgow Rangers, Scotland); Sikiru Alimi (Remo Stars); Tolu Arokodare (KRC Genk, Belgium); Ahmed Musa (Kano Pillars); Adamu Abubakar (Plateau United) Available for training only: Felix Agu (Werder Bremen, Germany) SUPER EAGLES FOR RUSSIA FRIENDLY: Goalkeepers: Maduka Okoye (Udinese FC, Italy); Amas Obasogie (Singida Blackstars, Tanzania) Defenders: William Ekong (Al-Kholood FC, Saudi Arabia); Olaoluwa Aina (Nottingham Forest, England); Bright Osayi-Samuel (Fenerbahce SK, Turkey); Bruno Onyemaechi (Olympiacos FC, Greece); Oluwasemilogo Ajayi (West Bromwich Albion, England); Igoh Ogbu (SK Slavia Prague, Czech Republic) Midfielders: Wilfred Ndidi (Leicester City, England); Frank Onyeka (Augsburg FC, Germany); Raphael Onyedika (Club Brugge, Belgium); Fisayo Dele-Bashiru (Lazio FC, Italy); Chrisantus Uche (Getafe CF, Spain); Papa Daniel Mustapha (Niger Tornadoes) Forwards: Victor Boniface (Bayer Leverkusen, Germany); Samuel Chukwueze (AC Milan, Italy); Kelechi Iheanacho (Middlesbrough FC, England); Simon Moses (FC Nantes, France); Nathan Tella (Bayer Leverkusen, Germany); Tolu Arokodare (KRC Genk, Belgium); Sadiq Umar (Valencia CF, Spain)

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Unity Cup: Super Eagles Legends Commend Chelle’s Balanced Squad for Showdown in London

Fola Badmus07 mins

As Nigeria prepares for the highly anticipated Unity Cup Tournament in London, two Super Eagles greats—Garba Lawal and Mutiu Adepoju—have thrown their weight behind current head coach Eric Chelle for his commendable decision to blend homegrown talents from the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) with established foreign professionals. Their endorsement comes as Chelle names a 25-man squad set to face off against Ghana in the semi-finals of the Unity Cup on May 28, with the tournament finale billed for May 31 at the Gtech Community Stadium in West London. Chelle’s approach evokes memories of legendary Nigerian coaches such as Clemens Westerhof, Stephen Keshi, and Bonfrere Jo, all of whom famously integrated domestic league players into the national team fabric. That tradition, which played a crucial role in Nigeria’s golden football era of the 1990s, appears to be receiving a modern-day revival. In an interview with reporters, Mutiu Adepoju—fondly remembered as “The Headmaster” for his aerial prowess—noted that Chelle’s inclusion of nine-ten NPFL players is not only strategic but inspirational for local talents. “Yes, I think it’s a good one, a good development,” Adepoju said. “Counting the number of home-based players, I could see nine—this is great for the NPFL. It’s a way of encouraging our domestic league and showing belief in the talent available at home.” When asked whether Chelle is intentionally following in the footsteps of former coaches like Westerhof and Keshi, Adepoju affirmed: “Yes, I think it’s always good. Chelle did something similar while he was coaching in Mali. It’s best to ensure the local league is encouraged—it’s very important. Adepoju also expressed optimism about Nigeria’s chances at the tournament: “Why not? They are going there to compete. If they put everything they have into it, I believe they can win.” Similarly, Garba Lawal—a versatile midfielder from Nigeria’s golden generation—hailed the squad list as a refreshing nod to player development. “It’s a good one. I believe Chelle wants to give some other people a chance to play, which is good,” said Lawal. “It’s a mix of foreign and home-based players. I hope the home-based will take advantage of this opportunity.” Lawal emphasised the significance of performance for local players in such international settings: “There aren’t too many professionals in there, so the home-based players need to showcase their talents. As a player, this is the kind of opportunity you’re looking for. When you’re called upon, you have to give your best because the coach has already done his part.” He also echoed sentiments on the historical context, saying: “People like Westerhof, Keshi, Bonfrere Jo—they all did similar things. It’s not new. This is a traditional way of bringing in the local players.” Strategic squad selection The Unity Cup is more than just another friendly tournament—it carries historical significance for Nigeria. The Super Eagles won the last two editions of the competition in 2002 and 2004. Notably, the 2004 edition saw the international debut of Obafemi Martins in a clash against Ireland. Martins would go on to become one of Nigeria’s most celebrated strikers, a testament to how impactful opportunities like the Unity Cup can be for emerging talents. Chelle seems keen to continue that legacy. His selection includes marquee foreign-based names like Moses Simon (FC Nantes), Wilfred Ndidi (Leicester City), and Kelechi Iheanacho (Sevilla), balanced with standout NPFL performers such as Remo Stars’ captain Junior Harrison Nduka and Sikiru Alimi. In goal, Stanley Nwabali returns alongside Maduka Okoye and Amas Obasogie. The 2025 Unity Cup, featuring Nigeria, Ghana, Jamaica, and Trinidad & Tobago, will serve as a platform for Chelle to assess squad depth ahead of crucial World Cup qualifiers in September and October. The Franco-Malian himself acknowledged this in a recent statement: “We’re looking forward to taking part in the Unity Cup as it will give us the chance to try out a few new players in different roles, helping us to strengthen our squad.” This blend of youth and experience, domestic and diaspora, signals a strategic evolution under Chelle’s stewardship. Beyond just winning the Unity Cup, the bigger victory may lie in building a more inclusive and competitive Super Eagles squad.

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Super Eagles, Chelsea Celebrate Mikel at 38

Fola Badmus02 mins

Former African champions, Super Eagles and Premier League giants, Chelsea have congratulated erstwhile national team skipper John Obi Mikel on his 38th birthday. Both national team and the European club side took to Twitter handle now X on Tuesday to celebrate the retired midfielder. “Happy birthday to our former captain and legend Mikel John,” Super Eagles wrote. In a similar fashion, Chelsea also wrote; “Mikel Have a wonderful birthday, John Obi Mikel!” Mikel, born John Michael Nchekwube Obinna on 22 April 1987 stayed with Chelsea for 11 years where he won multiple titles, including two Premier League titles, four FA Cups, and the 2011–12 Champions League. After leaving Chelsea, he had brief stints at Tianjin TEDA, Middlesbrough, Trabzonspor, Stoke City and Kuwait SC. In a 14-year international career between 2005 and 2019, he played 91 times for Nigeria, scoring six goals. He went to five Africa Cup of Nations tournaments (winning in 2013), two World Cups, and won a bronze medal at the Olympics in 2016.

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Maduka Okoye On Bournemouth’s Radar

Fola Badmus02 mins

Premier League side, Bournemouth has expressed interest in Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye. Bournemouth’s Sporting Director Tiago Pinto has previous experience in the Serie A with Roma and has in the past looked towards Italy in search of potential transfers. Most notably, he has signed Dean Huijsen from Juventus for the Cherries. Now he is looking at a goalkeeper from the same league. Okoye of Udinese is the keeper who has been scouted by the Premier League club. Presently negotiations over a potential deal haven’t started but as per Gianluigi Longari (via SportItalia.it), there is concrete interest. Okoye, who came to Udinese back in 2024, has only conceded 23 goals in the league. He has a decent amount of experience aged only 25 and could be a long term solution for Bournemouth as their Number One. Okoye has mentioned Dida as his idol while also stating that he looks up to the likes of Marc Andre Ter Stegen, Ederson and Thibaut Courtois.

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I’ll Play For Bendel Insurance FC If… -Ighalo

Fola Badmus02 mins

Former Super Eagles and Manchester United striker, Odion Jude Ighalo, has hinted at starring for Nigeria Premier Football League side, Bendel Insurance. Speaking on The Abu Azeez Podcast, the 35-year old Al-Wehda of Saudi Arabia goal poacher said he wish to return to the local league before calling quit with football. Ighalo however insisted that the local club side must put in place adequate security if they want his services. Abu Azeez, who starred for several clubs in the local league and also a member of national beach soccer team, the Beach Eagles asked Ighalo if he would be willing to play for Bendel Insurance should the Edo State Governor call to. “I would love to play but they have to guarrantee my security because it is not just playing, there is some many things (sic) involved with it. “So, playing almost 20 years outside Nigeria, then come back to play in your homeland. I know it is going to be tough but if some certain things are out in place, why not? I would love to…,” Ighalo stated. Ighalo was given birth to in Edo but raised in Lagos, featured for Prime FC and Julius Berger before his sojourn in Europe. Between 2015 and 2022, he played 37 games, scoring 16 goals for Nigeria.

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Ex-Eagles’ Defender, Taye Taiwo, Celebrates 40th Birthday

Fola Badmus01 mins

Former Super Eagles’ and AC Milan defender, Taye Taiwo on Wednesday celebrated his 40th birthday. The defender born 16 April 1985 took to his Instagram field to announce his new age. “Happy birthday to me. “Nigeria always. Alhamdulilah. “Joyeux anniversaire a moi (Meaning; Happy birthday to me.) Taye Taiwo featured for Nigeria between 2004 and 2012. He played 53 games for the national team and scored 5 goals. He won many laurels with the national teams which includes; a silver medal at the Beijing 2008 Olympics, African Youth Championship Trophy and also a silver medal at the Netherlands 2005 FIFA World Youth Championship.

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Ex-Eagles’ Striker, Ideye, Denies Second Wife Rumours

Fola Badmus01 mins

AFCON 2010 winning Super Eagles’ striker, Brown Ideye has reiterated that he is not secretly married to another woman outside wedlock. Furious about the rumours spediang like wildfire, the Enyimba FC forward took to his twitter handle now X to dismiss the claims. “Have said this before and I’m saying it again. I don’t have a second wife or family home or abroad. Happily married 2010 and God bless my wife and with two lovely boys. “Don’t take my silence for foolishness. Period!,” he warned. The goalpoacher, who is married to Damka Ideye and were blessed with two boys, Andriy Ideye and Brown Ideye Jr. was accused of having children with a Ukrainian woman during his career at Dynamo Kyiv of Ukraine.

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Green Eagles’ Captain, ‘Chairman’ Christian Chukwu, Dies at 74

Fola Badmus03 mins

1980 AFCON-winning captain, Christian Chukwu popularly known as ‘Chairman’ has passed away. The Nigeria Football Federation has expressed deep sorrow after it was confirmed that Chukwu, who captained Nigeria to her ever Africa Cup of Nations win and later coached the team, had died in his native city of Enugu on Saturday. Nicknamed ‘Chairman’ because of his imposing presence and the authority he exuded just in front of the rearguard at both club (Enugu Rangers) and country, Christian Chukwu was overjoyed as he hoisted above his head the Unity Cup (the first time Nigeria would triumph in the continental championship) after receiving same from President Shehu Shagari at the National Stadium, Surulere on Saturday, 22nd March 1980. General Secretary of Nigeria Football Federation, Dr Mohammed Sanusi, said: “We have lost a good and great man. Chukwu was the definition of a strong, dedicated and disciplined leader on and off the field. He was not nicknamed ‘Chairman’ for nothing. He embodied strength, vision and consistency. “We pray that the Almighty will grant his soul eternal rest, and also grant the family and friends he has left behind, and Nigeria football’s fraternity the fortitude to bear this big loss.” Chukwu was in the Nigeria senior team that won bronze medals at the 1976 and 1978 AFCON finals in Ethiopia and Ghana respectively, before leading the squad to glory on home soil in 1980. He was named Player of the Tournament. Born on 4th January 1951, Chukwu coached his darling club, Enugu Rangers (he played for only one club in his career) and then coached the senior national team of Kenya, nicknamed the Harambee Stars. He was named Head Coach of the Super Eagles in 2002, and led the team to finish third at the 2004 AFCON finals in Tunisia. His death comes exactly 20 days after the 45th anniversary of the 1980 AFCON triumph. Before him, other members of the squad that had passed on, are goalkeepers Best Ogedegbe and Moses Effiong, defenders Okechukwu Isima and Tunde Bamidele, midfielders Aloysius Atugbu and Mudashiru Lawal, and forward Martins Eyo.

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