Nigeria will conclude their March international window with a high-profile friendly against Jordan, in what is shaping up to be a demanding test for the Super Eagles as both sides continue their preparations for upcoming competitions.
The encounter carries added significance for the Jordanians, who are fine-tuning their squad ahead of their maiden appearance at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Their qualification for the global showpiece represents a historic achievement and reflects the steady growth of football in the West Asian nation.
Nicknamed The Chivalrous Ones, Jordan have steadily built a competitive side capable of troubling established teams. Their recent performances underline that progress, particularly their run to the final of the FIFA Arab Cup, where they matched Morocco stride for stride in a 2-2 draw before eventually losing via penalties. That outing further reinforced their reputation as a disciplined and resilient unit.
Jordan head into this fixture on the back of a 2-2 draw with Costa Rica, a result that showcased both their attacking threat and areas needing defensive tightening. For Nigeria, the game follows a confidence boosting 2-1 victory over Iran in Antalya. Goals from Moses Simon and Akor Adams in each half secured the win, offering head coach Eric Chelle encouraging signs in attack.
Beyond the result, the friendly against Jordan presents another opportunity for Chelle to continue shaping his squad and refining tactical balance. The Super Eagles are in a rebuilding phase after missing out on qualification for the 2026 World Cup, a setback that has intensified the need for cohesion, consistency and renewed belief within the team.
The disappointment of that failed qualification was compounded by FIFA’s decision to dismiss Nigeria’s appeal over DR Congo’s alleged use of ineligible players during the playoff encounter last December. As a result, these friendlies have taken on added importance as the team seeks to move forward and re establish its competitive edge on the international stage.
One of the key areas of concern ahead of the Jordan clash is the defensive line, particularly at centre back. Igoh Ogbu’s injury during the Iran game has left a potential gap, with his availability still uncertain. Should he be ruled out, Emmanuel Fernandez and Chibuike Nwaiwu are widely expected to step into contention for a starting role. Their possible inclusion could provide an opportunity to assess depth and flexibility in the backline.
In midfield, experienced figures like Wilfred Ndidi, Alex Iwobi and Frank Onyeka are expected to play crucial roles in dictating tempo and providing stability, while Raphael Onyedika and Fisayo Dele Bashiru offer additional dynamism and attacking support from deeper positions.
Going forward, Nigeria boasts a blend of pace, creativity and physical presence. Ademola Lookman, Samuel Chukwueze and Moses Simon bring width and direct attacking threat, while forwards such as Paul Onuachu and Akor Adams provide options in central attacking areas. Chidera Ejuke and Philip Otele further add depth and versatility in the final third.
As the Super Eagles prepare to face a motivated Jordan side, the fixture offers more than just another friendly. It is a test of progress, a chance to build momentum and an opportunity to lay down a marker for the team’s next phase under Eric Chelle.
Nigeria’s squad for the international friendly against Jordan includes:
Goalkeepers: Maduka Okoye, Adeleye Adebayo, Francis Uzoho
Defenders: Calvin Bassey, Oluwasemilogo Ajayi, Bright Osayi Samuel, Bruno Onyemaechi, Zaidu Sanusi, Igoh Ogbu, Emmanuel Fernandez
Midfielders: Alex Iwobi, Frank Onyeka, Wilfred Ndidi, Raphael Onyedika, Fisayo Dele Bashiru
Forwards: Ademola Lookman, Samuel Chukwueze, Moses Simon, Chidera Ejuke, Paul Onuachu, Akor Adams, Philip Otele
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