Former Nigerian international Ifeanyi Udeze has appealed to the Super Eagles’ new players to utilize the opportunity of representing the senior national team at the 2026 Unity Cup.
Recall that the Super Eagles head coach, Eric Chelle, included 12 new players who will join the established players for the game against Zimbabwe tonight in London.
Among the invited players are captain Wilfred Ndidi; goalkeeper Francis Uzoho; defenders Bruno Onyemaechi and Igoh Ogbu; as well as forwards Moses Simon, Akor Adams, and Terem Moffi.
Speaking with Brila FM, the former PAOK star stated that the new players will be given the chance to show their worth in the colours of Nigeria.
“This is a big opportunity for the new players to prove their worth and convince Chelle that they merit their place in the team.
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“I just hope the new players who will be selected for the game against Zimbabwe will turn up. I wish them all the very best.”
The Unity Cup squad feels like a deliberate opportunity for experimentation.
Nigeria will face Zimbabwe in the semi-finals at Charlton’s The Valley Stadium in London on May 26, with a potential final against either Jamaica or India awaiting.
Several home-based players have been included, alongside younger names looking to establish themselves internationally. There is also major interest around goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo, who recently switched allegiance from England to Nigeria and receives his first senior call-up.
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For the glamour friendlies against Poland and Portugal, Chelle has gone much stronger.
The squad includes many of Nigeria’s biggest stars, with Victor Osimhen leading the line alongside Ademola Lookman, Samuel Chukwueze and Paul Onuachu.
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The midfield also looks experienced, featuring Alex Iwobi, Frank Onyeka, Raphael Onyedika and Wilfred Ndidi, while the defence is anchored by Calvin Bassey and Semi Ajayi.
On paper, these friendlies should provide a far clearer indication of what Chelle’s strongest XI currently looks like heading into future competitive fixtures.
