Super Eagles Announce Squads for Unity Cup and Russia Friendly, Big Names Missing

By: Gyang Dakwo

The head coach of the Super Eagles, Eric Chelle, has revealed a 26-man squad for the upcoming Unity Cup and a trimmed 21-player list for an international friendly against Russia. Some big names like Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, and Alex Iwobi are missing from both lists.

Veteran forward Ahmed Musa, who plays for Kano Pillars, has been recalled to the national team. This marks his return to the squad after some time away.

The Unity Cup, which is aimed at promoting unity in African football, will kick off with a big clash between Nigeria and Ghana on Wednesday, May 28. The match will take place in London.

Meanwhile, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has confirmed that the Super Eagles will face Russia in an international friendly. The match will be played at the Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow on Friday, June 6. Even though there were concerns about playing against a country currently banned by FIFA, the NFF has gone ahead with the plans.

For the trip to Moscow, Coach Chelle has named a fresh 21-man squad. The list includes key defenders like team captain William Troost-Ekong, Ola Aina, and Bright Osayi-Samuel.

In midfield, Wilfred Ndidi and Raphael Onyedika will take charge, alongside Fisayo Dele-Bashiru and Chrisantus Uche.

The attack will be led by Bayer Leverkusen striker Victor Boniface, AC Milan winger Samuel Chukwueze, and Valencia forward Sadiq Umar. They will be supported by other forwards such as Kelechi Iheanacho, Nathan Tella, and Simon Moses.

The Super Eagles are expected to use both matches to prepare for upcoming major competitions and build team chemistry under their new coach.