By Rachel Akper

Nigeria’s Super Eagles will head into their upcoming international friendlies against Iran and Jordan without two of their key players, Victor Osimhen and Ola Aina, after head coach, Eric Chelle announced the 23-man squad on Wednesday.Osimhen, Aina Left Out of Super Eagles Squad for Iran, Jordan Friendlies

The friendlies are scheduled for March 27 against Iran and March 31 against Jordan, as part of Nigeria’s preparations during the March international window.

The absence of Osimhen, the Galatasaray striker and vice-captain of the national team, and Aina, the Nottingham Forest defender, is seen as a notable omission from the roster. The reasons for their exclusion have not been formally disclosed, though reports suggest that Chelle is using the fixtures to experiment with squad rotation and give opportunities to emerging talents.

The squad features a mix of experienced campaigners and new call-ups. Key players retained include Wilfred Ndidi, Alex Iwobi, Samuel Chukwueze, and Calvin Bassey. Meanwhile, newcomers like Emmanuel Fernandez, Yira Sor, and Philip Otele have been given a chance to stake their claim ahead of competitive tournaments.

Goalkeepers called up are Maduka Okoye, Adeleye Adebayo, and Francis Uzoho. The defensive line includes Bassey, Semi Ajayi, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Bruno Onyemaechi, Zaidu Sanusi, Igoh Ogbu, and Emmanuel Fernandez. Midfield options feature Alex Iwobi, Frank Onyeka, Wilfred Ndidi, Raphael Onyedika, and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru. Up front, Chelle has selected Ademola Lookman, Chidera Ejuke, Moses Simon, Samuel Chukwueze, Paul Onuachu, Akor Adams, Philip Otele, and Yira Sor.

These matches against Iran and Jordan provide the Super Eagles with an opportunity to test new tactics, integrate fresh talent, and maintain match fitness ahead of upcoming competitive fixtures.