Nigeria

Injury Blow for Super Eagles as Okoye Ruled Out; Chelle Set to Reshuffle Squad Ahead of Jordan Clash 

The Super Eagles have suffered a major setback ahead of their international friendly against Jordan, with head coach Eric Chelle forced to rethink his options following the injury to first-choice goalkeeper Maduka Okoye.

READ ALSO: Emmanuel Fernández Grateful With Opportunity Of Playing For Super Eagles Against Iran

Okoye has been ruled out of Tuesday’s encounter after sustaining a thigh injury during a training session in Antalya, Turkey.

Team officials confirmed that the Udinese shot-stopper will play no part in the fixture.

With his absence, Chelle is now left with Francis Uzoho and Adebayo Adeleye as the available goalkeeping options for the clash.

Despite the injury setback, preparations in camp have continued smoothly, with the squad maintaining focus as they gear up for their final game of the international window.

The team has also been hit by further departures, as defenders Semi Ajayi and Bruno Onyemaechi have both left camp, the latter following the recent birth of his child.

Nigeria opened their friendly series on a positive note with a 2–1 victory over Iran, courtesy of goals from Moses Simon and Akor Adams.

The match also featured debut appearances for Chibuike Nwaiwu and Emmanuel Fernandez, highlighting Chelle’s efforts to integrate fresh talent into the squad.

Earlier, Chelle named a 23-man squad for the international friendlies, notably without first-choice goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, while star striker Victor Osimhen also remains sidelined due to injury.

However, the squad still retains a strong core of experienced players, including captain Wilfred Ndidi and Alex Iwobi, alongside Simon and other emerging talents pushing for opportunities.

The Super Eagles will face Jordan on Tuesday in Antalya, as Chelle continues to assess his squad amid growing injury concerns.