The Super Eagles are determined to continue their winning run when they face Jordan’s Al-Nashama in an international friendly in Antalya, Turkey, on Tuesday.
Head coach Eric Chelle is confident his team can secure another victory following their 2-1 win over Iran last Friday. Goals from Moses Simon in the first half and Akor Adams early in the second half sealed the win against the Iranians at the Corendon Airlines Park.
Despite some changes in the squad, Chelle remains focused on delivering a strong performance. Defenders Semi Ajayi and Bruno Onyemaechi have left camp, but the coach believes the available players are capable of getting the job done. The team held another training session on Monday evening as preparations continued.
Jordan, who are preparing for the FIFA World Cup, have improved greatly in recent years. Currently ranked 64th in the world, they have lost only one of their last five matches. That defeat came in a narrow 3-2 loss to Morocco national football team, semi-finalists at the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
Al-Nashama have also recorded impressive results, including victories over Saudi Arabia, Iraq and Egypt, as well as a 2-2 draw with Costa Rica in their last outing.
Chelle is expected to make some adjustments to his line-up. Igoh Ogbu will need a new central defensive partner, while Zaidu Sanusi is likely to step in at left back. Bright Osayi-Samuel is set to keep his place on the right side of defence.
In midfield, Alex Iwobi is closing in on his 100th appearance for Nigeria and is expected to play alongside captain Wilfred Ndidi. One of Frank Onyeka, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru or Raphael Onyedika could complete the trio.
In attack, Moses Simon may once again lead the line, supported by two of Samuel Chukwueze, Ademola Lookman and Akor Adams. Other options available include Paul Onuachu, Chidera Ejuke, as well as new faces Philip Otele and Collins Yira Sor.
Nigeria head into the match unbeaten in regular time in their last five games, with victories over Algeria, Mozambique and Iran, alongside a penalty shootout win against Egypt in the Africa Cup of Nations third-place match.
Both teams have met twice at senior level, with one win each. Nigeria recorded a 2-0 victory in Lagos in 2004, while Jordan claimed a 1-0 win in Amman in 2013.
Meanwhile, new invitee Emmanuel Oluwasegun Fernandez has expressed his excitement at joining the national team. The defender said he was surprised but grateful for the opportunity to be part of the squad, adding that playing at the highest level for Nigeria is a dream come true.
The friendly offers another chance for the Super Eagles to build momentum as they continue preparations for upcoming international competitions.
