Unity Cup: Chelle names experimental squad to defend title

Super Eagles coach Éric Chelle has named 12 uncapped players in his 27-man squad for the 2026 Unity Cup, signalling a blend of youth, home-based talent and emerging overseas prospects ahead of the tournament in London.

 

The Unity Cup begins on May 26 and will feature Nigeria, Jamaica, India and Zimbabwe, with the Super Eagles seeking to retain the title won in the previous edition.

 

Chelle had earlier indicated that new players would be given opportunities, and the final squad reflects that approach, with strong representation from the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) and the English Football League (EFL).

 

Seven NPFL players earned maiden invitations to the senior national team.

 

Ikorodu City produced the highest number of home-based invitees, with goalkeeper Michael Atata, defender Aderemi Adeoye and midfielder Tosin Oyedokun making the squad.

 

Defending NPFL champions Rangers International also had two players selected — Chibueze Oputa and Obinna Igboke — while Rivers United defender Elias Ochobi and Shooting Stars midfielder Ayobami Junior completed the home-based list.

 

Ayobami has been among the standout performers in the NPFL this season, recording 13 assists to top the league’s playmaking chart.

 

Oyedokun also impressed with four goals and four assists for Ikorodu City.

 

Goalkeeper Michael Atata earned recognition after keeping 16 clean sheets this season.

 

Defender Chibueze Oputa recorded six assists, the highest by any defender in the NPFL this term, while Elias Ochobi has been praised for his performances for Rivers United.

 

Teenage winger Zadok Yohanna is among the notable inclusions following strong displays for AIK Fotboll in Sweden.

 

The 18-year-old has contributed two goals and three assists in seven league matches.

 

Forward Rafiu Durosinmi also earned a call-up despite limited recent impact at Pisa Sporting Club.

 

Among the overseas-based newcomers are three players from the English Football League.

 

Striker Owen Oseni was invited after registering seven goals and five assists in 27 appearances for Plymouth Argyle.

 

Winger Femi Azeez made the squad following an impressive season at Millwall, where he scored 11 goals and provided eight assists in 35 matches.

 

Goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo, who plays for Wrexham, also received a call-up after keeping 10 clean sheets in 39 league appearances.

 

The former Arsenal academy goalkeeper is expected to compete for a place in the national team as Chelle continues rebuilding the squad ahead of future international competitions.