Super Eagles: Nigeria set to beat Cote d’Ivoire, Republic of Ireland to 10-goal striker

Nigeria could be set for an important win off the pitch as Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle considers inviting in-form striker Owen Oseni ahead of the Unity Cup, Afrik-Foot reports.

The 22-year-old forward has caught attention with his steady performances for Plymouth Argyle this season. He has scored 10 goals and provided five assists in 33 appearances, numbers that indicate his growing confidence and sharpness in front of goal.

Used mainly as a centre-forward, Oseni’s pace and direct running have made him a constant threat to defenders.

His recent form has been particularly impressive. In April, he delivered one of his best displays, scoring twice and setting up another goal in a convincing win over Barnsley. That performance appears to have strengthened Chelle’s interest as the coach looks to freshen up his attacking options.

Oseni’s journey has not been straightforward. He began his career in Ireland before moving through the English lower leagues and even spending time in Scotland. His breakthrough came during a productive spell at Gateshead, where he scored 13 goals in 24 matches. A short stint at St Mirren followed, before his move to Plymouth Argyle last year gave him a bigger platform.

What makes his situation more intriguing is his international eligibility. Born in Ireland, with Nigerian and Ivorian heritage, Oseni is able to represent three countries. He holds a Nigerian passport, which puts the Super Eagles in a strong position, but both the Republic of Ireland and Ivory Coast remain in the picture.

Talks with Nigerian officials have already begun, and the Unity Cup could be the perfect opportunity to secure his commitment.

Super Eagles: Marcus also back in the frame

Oseni is not the only player Chelle is monitoring ahead of the tournament. The Super Eagles boss is also keeping a close watch on Abraham Marcus, who could be handed a return to the national team after several years away.

Marcus, who previously played for FC Porto, has rebuilt his career in Portugal with Estrela da Amadora. Although his time at Porto was limited, with just one senior appearance, he has found rhythm and consistency at his current club. This season, he has been directly involved in 10 goals in 26 league matches.

One of his standout performances came against Casa Pia, where he scored once and provided two assists, showing the kind of attacking quality that once made him a promising option for Nigeria.

The winger has not featured for the Super Eagles since 2021, when he played in friendly matches against Cameroon. Since then, he has slipped out of the international picture, but his recent form suggests he could be ready for another chance.

Chelle has already made it clear that he wants to introduce new players while also revisiting talents who were previously overlooked or underused. The Unity Cup now presents a timely opportunity to test both ideas.

If Oseni commits to Nigeria and Marcus returns to the fold, the Super Eagles could head into the tournament with a refreshed and more competitive attacking unit.