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By Joe Apu
Nigeria’s preparations for today’s international friendly against Jordan have suffered a minor setback with goalkeeper Maduka Okoye ruled out after sustaining a thigh injury in training.
The Super Eagles head into the encounter in Antalya, Turkey, on the back of an impressive 2-1 victory over Iran, with head coach Eric Chelle expressing confidence that his side can secure another win.
First-half efforts from Moses Simon and Akor Adams powered Nigeria past Team Melli at the Corendon Airlines Park on Friday, continuing a strong run of form for the three-time African champions.
Despite the absence of defenders Semi Ajayi and Bruno Onyemaechi—the latter excused following the birth of his child—Chelle remains upbeat, with 21 players available for selection. The team underwent another intensive training session on Monday evening as they fine-tune strategies.
Jordan, who are preparing for the FIFA World Cup, present a formidable test. Ranked 64th in the world, the Asian side have lost just once in their last five matches—a narrow 3-2 defeat to Morocco—and have recorded notable wins over Saudi Arabia, Iraq and Egypt, alongside a 2-2 draw with Costa Rica.
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Chelle is expected to reshuffle his defence, with Igoh Ogbu likely to partner a new centre-back, while Zaidu Sanusi could step in for Onyemaechi. Bright Osayi-Samuel is set to retain his place at right-back.
In midfield, Alex Iwobi is on course for his 98th international cap, partnering captain Wilfred Ndidi, with options including Frank Onyeka, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru and Raphael Onyedika.
Upfront, Simon could again lead the attack alongside two of Samuel Chukwueze, Adams and Ademola Lookman. Paul Onuachu, Chidera Ejuke, and new invitees Philip Otele and Collins Yira Sor also provide attacking depth.
The Super Eagles are unbeaten in regulation time in their last five matches, recording wins over Algeria, Mozambique and Iran, alongside a penalty shootout victory against Egypt in the Africa Cup of Nations third-place fixture.
Historically, Nigeria and Jordan have met twice at senior level, with both sides claiming one win apiece.
Meanwhile, new invitee Emmanuel Oluwasegun Fernandez has expressed gratitude for his maiden call-up, describing it as a dream opportunity to represent Nigeria.
