Chelle’s scout mission: Who impressed Super Eagles boss in 3SC vs Nasarawa United?

Super Eagles head coach Éric Chelle continued his search for home-based talent on Sunday as he watched Shooting Stars defeat Nasarawa United 3-2 in a lively Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) contest in Ibadan, Afrik-Foot reports.

With the two teams still battling for continental spots, a thrilling encounter was anticipated ahead of the clash at the Lekan Salami Stadium in Adamasinga and it lived up to expectations.

Chelle, in town to scout and identify players who could earn a place in Nigeria’s squad for the upcoming Unity Cup later this month, witnessed a five-goal thriller.

Shooting Stars made a fast start, with Lucky Emmanuel scoring in the 4th minute and again in the 25th minute to give the home side a 2-0 lead. The early goals lifted the crowd and put Nasarawa United under pressure.

However, the visitors responded before half-time through JoFrank Istifanus, who pulled one back to make it 2-1. After the break, Nasarawa continued to push, and their effort paid off in the 57th minute when Habibu Alakija scored the equaliser.

Just when it looked like the game might end level, Qamar Adegoke stepped up in the 77th minute to score the winning goal. His strike sealed a 3-2 victory for Shooting Stars and moved them up to third place on the table with 57 points after 36 matches.

Three NPFL stars brightened their Super Eagles chances

Qamar Adegoke (Shooting Stars)

Already a strong candidate for Shooting Stars’ Player of the Season award, Adegoke fittingly netted the decisive winning goal for the Oluyole Warriors.

A super-sub per excellence, the young striker has now scored 10 league goals, putting him among the top scorers in the NPFL with two games left.

What makes his record even more impressive is how he scores his goals. Nine of his ten strikes have come from the bench, showing he thrives under pressure and can change games late on. Against his former club, he timed his run perfectly in the 77th minute and finished with composure, a sign of a striker full of confidence.

Adegoke, 21, has also been effective both home and away, with six goals in Ibadan and four on the road. As Shooting Stars rebuild into a competitive side again, Adegoke has become their reliable finisher, a trait that could attract Chelle’s attention as he looks for sharp, decisive attackers.

Lucky Emmanuel (Shooting Stars)

At just 21, Lucky Emmanuel delivered one of the most exciting performances of the match. Operating mainly as a right winger, he showed why he is regarded as one of the most promising young attackers in the NPFL.

His first goal in the 4th minute came from intelligent positioning, as he reacted quickly inside the penalty area. The second, in the 25th minute, showed his composure and finishing ability.

Beyond his goals, Emmanuel’s movement caused constant problems for Nasarawa’s defence. He is not just a winger as he can also play as a central striker or on the left, giving him valuable versatility. His career has already taken him beyond Nigeria, with spells in Egypt and the Czech Republic, experiences that have helped shape his game.

Having previously been involved with Nigeria’s U-17 and U-20 teams, Emmanuel looks ready for the next step. His pace, awareness, and ability to hold up play make him a strong candidate for Chelle’s squad.

Habibu Alakija (Nasarawa United)

Although Nasarawa United lost, Habibu Alakija’s performance stood out. The forward, who can play as a central striker or on the wing, was one of numerous bright lights for the Coal Miners.

Alakija’s equalising goal in the 57th minute was a key moment. Arriving at the right place at the right time, he struck expertly to bring his team level at 2-2. It was another important contribution in what has been a growing season for him.

Alakija only made his NPFL debut in September 2024 and scored his first professional goal in January 2026, but he has improved quickly. In recent weeks, he has been involved in crucial goals, including one that helped end a winless run for his team in April.

Known for his high work rate and willingness to press defenders, he offers energy and commitment, qualities that coaches value highly. While he may still be developing, his attitude and steady progress suggest he could be a useful option for the national team in the near future.

Chelle scout mission: What next?

Chelle, who plans to include several home-based players in his Unity Cup squad, will have taken plenty of notes concerning these exciting youngsters.

The Malian tactician is expected to continue his scouting mission in Lagos as he is scheduled to attend Tuesday’s NPFL fixture between Ikorodu City and Wikki Tourists.

Chelle will likely name his Unity Cup squad next week ahead of Nigeria’s first Unity Cup clash against Zimbabwe on May 26.