Fresh from a morale-boosting 2-1 triumph over Iran in Antalya, the Super Eagles are setting their sights on another victory as they prepare to face Jordan in a friendly encounter on Tuesday.
Head coach Eric Chelle has expressed confidence in his side’s ability to build on their recent success, despite a few changes in personnel. Goals from Moses Simon and Akor Adams secured the win over Iran at the Corendon Airlines Park, giving the team momentum heading into their next fixture.
The squad will, however, be without defenders Semi Ajayi and Bruno Onyemaechi, both of whom have left camp, while goalkeeper Maduka Okoye is also unavailable after picking up a knock in training. Despite these absences, Chelle remains optimistic with 20 players available, and the team continued preparations with an intensive training session on Monday.
Jordan, also known as Al-Nashama, arrive as a much-improved side and will pose a serious test. The Asian outfit, currently ranked 64th in the world, have lost just once in their last five matches and a narrow 3-2 defeat to Morocco. They have also recorded impressive wins against Saudi Arabia, Iraq, and Egypt, alongside a 2-2 draw with Costa Rica.
Chelle is expected to reshuffle his defence, with Igoh Ogbu likely needing a new central partner, while Zaidu Sanusi could step in at left-back. Bright Osayi-Samuel is set to retain his place on the right.
In midfield, Alex Iwobi is on the verge of his 98th international cap and is expected to feature alongside captain Wilfred Ndidi, with options including Frank Onyeka, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, and Raphael Onyedika.
Up front, Simon could again lead the charge, supported by the likes of Samuel Chukwueze, Ademola Lookman, and Adams. Additional attacking options include Paul Onuachu, Chidera Ejuke, as well as newcomers Philip Otele and Collins Yira Sor.
Nigeria head into the clash unbeaten in regulation time across their last five outings, a run that includes victories over Algeria, Mozambique, and Iran, as well as a penalty shootout win against Egypt in the AFCON third-place match.
Historically, both nations have met twice at senior level with one win apiece. Nigeria claimed a 2-0 victory in Lagos in 2004, while Jordan edged a 1-0 win in Amman in 2013.
Meanwhile, new invitee Emmanuel Oluwasegun Fernandez has expressed his delight at joining the national team setup. The defender admitted he was initially surprised by the call-up but is grateful for the opportunity, adding that playing at the European level has helped shape his development.
With confidence high and competition for places intense, the Super Eagles will be aiming to deliver another strong performance as they continue their preparations.
