Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has opted not to call up replacements for defenders Bruno Onyemaechi and Semi Ajayi ahead of Tuesday’s international friendly against Jordan. Both players have officially departed the team’s training camp in Antalya, Turkey.
According to PUNCH Sports Extra, Onyemaechi was granted leave following the birth of his child, while Ajayi received permission to withdraw after missing a recent training session due to an injury. The injury occurred following Nigeria’s 2-1 victory over Iran on Friday.
During the match against Iran, Onyemaechi played the full ninety minutes. Ajayi, however, started the game but was substituted in the second half, allowing Emmanuel Fernandez to make his international debut.
Despite the loss of two key defensive options, Chelle has decided to place his trust in the players currently available in camp rather than bringing in outside reinforcements. Fernandez, who delivered an impressive debut performance, is now expected to take on a more prominent role against Jordan.
Furthermore, Trabzonspor defender Chibuike Nwaiwu is available to step in if required, and Slavia Prague centre back Igoh Ogbu is highly likely to retain his spot in the starting lineup.
The stakes are clear for Nigeria heading into the clash with Jordan. A victory will guarantee the Super Eagles the title in the ongoing four nation tournament, regardless of the outcome of the other fixture between Costa Rica and Iran.
Currently ranked 26th in the world, Nigeria sits well above 64th ranked Jordan. However, Chelle is not expected to underestimate his opponents, especially after Jordan displayed strong resilience to secure a 2-2 draw with Costa Rica in their opening match.
The Super Eagles enter the game riding a massive wave of momentum. Since Chelle took charge, the team has gone on a remarkable 19 match unbeaten run, scoring 37 goals and conceding only 14. This impressive streak includes a third place finish at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
The upcoming friendly against Jordan serves as the final match of the current international window as the Nigerian squad begins building momentum toward the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
