Super Eagles: Why ex-Arsenal star’s return changes Eric Chelle’s plans vs Portugal

Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle has received encouraging news ahead of Nigeria’s high-profile international friendly against Portugal on June 10, with Fulham midfielder Alex Iwobi now joining the squad in Lisbon, Afrik-Foot reports.

The match against Portugal will be Nigeria’s final fixture of the season and presents another important test for Chelle’s team following their thrilling 2-2 draw against Poland in Warsaw earlier this week. The game also serves as Portugal’s last preparation outing before they begin their 2026 World Cup campaign.

Former Arsenal star Iwobi was absent when the Super Eagles faced Poland on Tuesday. Nigeria looked set for victory after taking the lead twice during the contest, only for the hosts to snatch a stoppage-time equaliser.

His arrival significantly strengthens Chelle’s midfield options ahead of next week’s encounter with European giants Portugal.

The Malian tactician deployed three defensive midfielders – Frank Onyeka, Wilfred Ndidi, Tochukwu Nnadi – against Poland and played Moses Simon as an attacking midfielder. With Iwobi available, Chelle could tinker with his personnel to accommodate the former Everton ace and add more creativity to the Super Eagles setup.

The 30-year-old is also on the brink of a major personal milestone. Having already made 99 appearances for Nigeria, Iwobi needs just one more cap to become only the fourth player in Super Eagles history to reach the 100-match mark, joining Joseph Yobo, Vincent Enyeama and Ahmed Musa in the exclusive club.

There had been speculation that Iwobi’s absence against Poland was linked to the red card he received during Nigeria’s friendly against Jordan in March 2026. However, the midfielder has now linked up with the squad in Portugal and is expected to be available for selection.

Akpan receives late Super Eagles call-up

While 21 players were included in Nigeria’s matchday squad against Poland, only 19 members of the group travelled onward to Portugal.

Pisa striker Rafiu Durosinmi was granted permission to miss the trip as he attends to private matters amid growing speculation surrounding his future following Pisa’s relegation from Serie A.

Meanwhile, Chelle has rewarded Racing Genk defender Christian Akpan with a late invitation to the national team setup.

The 21-year-old left-back recently made his senior debut for the Belgian club and has already arrived in Lisbon ahead of the Super Eagles’ next training session.

Akpan’s versatility is believed to be one of the qualities that attracted Chelle’s attention. The former ASEC Mimosas defender can operate on either side of defence and is also capable of playing in a defensive midfield role.

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The Super Eagles had only one traditional right-back in the squad against Poland with youngster Abdullahi Bewene making his international debut in that clash. The 21-year-old Banik Ostrava lad had earned a late invitation following the unavailability of Birmingham ace Bright Osayi-Samuel. Akpan will look to provide quality back-up for Bewene, who was one of only three players that featured for all 90 minutes against Poland’s White and Reds.

Nigeria’s squad could receive another boost before the Portugal match, with Samuel Chukwueze expected to report to camp on Friday.

The winger did not feature during the Unity Cup campaign, where the Super Eagles defeated Zimbabwe and Jamaica to successfully retain the trophy. However his arrival would further strengthen Chelle’s options ahead of one of Nigeria’s toughest friendlies of the year.

Portugal strolled to a comfortable 4-0 win over Nigeria the last time the two teams met four years ago.

Super Eagles squad for Portugal friendly

Goalkeepers: Maduka Okoye, Arthur Okonkwo, Francis Uzoho

Defenders: Semi Ajayi, Calvin Bassey, Abdullahi Bewene, Bruno Onyemaechi, Zaidu Sanusi, Igoh Ogbu, Emmanuel Fernandez, Christian Akpan

Midfielders: Alex Iwobi, Frank Onyeka, Wilfred Ndidi, Raphael Onyedika, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, Tochukwu Nnadi

Forwards: Samuel Chukwueze, Moses Simon, Paul Onuachu, Akor Adams, Philip Otele, Terem Moffi