Nigeria's Super Eagles travel to London next week carrying fresh faces and firm intentions as they look to defend their Unity Cup title at The Valley Stadium, the home of Charlton Athletic, from May 26 to 30, 2026.

Head coach Eric Chelle has named a 27-man squad for the invitational tournament, mixing seasoned internationals with 12 newcomers who have caught the eye across England, Italy, and the Nigeria Premier Football League. The Unity Cup will serve as a testing ground for these debutants ahead of future international assignments, as well as a warm-up for Nigeria's upcoming friendlies against Portugal and Poland in June.

The Super Eagles open their campaign against Zimbabwe on May 26, with the winner progressing to the final against either Jamaica or India.

The 12 new call-ups profiled

Arthur Okonkwo (Wrexham FC) — The former Arsenal academy goalkeeper had an outstanding Championship season, keeping 11 clean sheets for Wrexham. A seven-save display against Nottingham Forest in the FA Cup — including two penalty shootout stops — cemented his reputation as one of the most promising Nigerian goalkeepers abroad after he switched international allegiance during the 2025/2026 season.

Owen Oseni (Plymouth Argyle) — The 23-year-old striker has been one of League One's standout performers this season, registering seven goals and three assists for Plymouth Argyle. His intelligent movement and poaching instincts in the final third have attracted interest from top-flight clubs.

Femi Azeez (Millwall FC) — The 24-year-old winger was a key figure in Millwall's run to the Championship promotion playoffs, where the club were eliminated by Hull City. Fast and direct from the right wing, Azeez has drawn comparisons with Bayern Munich star Michael Olise and interest from Premier League clubs Brighton & Hove Albion and AFC Bournemouth. He is expected to make his senior Nigeria debut against Zimbabwe on May 26.

Rafiu Durosinmi (Pisa FC) — Standing at 6ft 4in, the natural goal scorer has Serie A experience with Pisa and has also featured in European competition. Although previously considered for international duty, this invitation marks his official inclusion in the senior squad under Chelle.

Michael Atata (Ikorodu City) — One of the youngest goalkeepers in the NPFL, Atata earned his call-up after keeping 16 clean sheets for Ikorodu City during a stellar domestic campaign. He is one of three players invited from the Lagos club.

Ayobami Junior (Shooting Stars) — A creative central midfielder with an excellent passing range, Junior has been among the NPFL's most consistent performers this season. He will look to demonstrate his quality on the international stage during the tournament.

Tosin Oyedokun (Ikorodu City) — Despite operating primarily in midfield, Oyedokun's eye for goal has marked him out as a player to watch. His chemistry with club teammate Aderemi Adeoye has driven Ikorodu City's rise in the NPFL this season.

Aderemi Adeoye (Ikorodu City) — Adeoye's creativity and consistency have been central to Ikorodu City's impressive domestic form. Partnering Oyedokun in midfield, he will hope to replicate his club performances at the Unity Cup.

Elias Ochobi (Rivers United) — A commanding left-back who graduated from the Rivers United youth system, Ochobi has developed considerably under coach Finidi George and established himself as a regular starter in the 2025/2026 NPFL season.

Chibueze Oputa (Enugu Rangers) — Known as the "Reece James of the NPFL," Oputa is a dynamic right-back for Enugu Rangers whose blistering pace, one-on-one defending, and attacking contributions have made him a standout in the domestic league.

Obinna Igboke (Enugu Rangers) — Widely regarded as one of the NPFL's finest left-backs, Igboke has been a dependable presence for Enugu Rangers and will be eager to make his mark on the international stage.

Alongside the overseas-based debutants, seven NPFL players in total have been included in the squad — a clear signal from Chelle that domestic league performers remain very much in his plans as Nigeria build towards future international challenges.