The Super Eagles will begin their qualifying campaign for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament later this month, hoping to seal the automatic qualification spot available in Group L, ahead of Madagascar, Guinea-Bissau and co-hosts Tanzania.
Nigeria finished second in the last edition of the AFCON and are aiming for the title if they qualify for the tournament. Head coach Eric Chelle announced a 24-man squad for the qualifiers on Thursday, with several players making their return after long absences while some new faces were also included in the team.
Here are the three players who have earned a call-up to the Super Eagles setup for the first time.
George Ilenikhena
Al Ittihad forward George Ilenikhena has been tipped to earn an invitation for the upcoming qualifiers after his impressive start to the 2026-27 season at the Saudi Pro League club.
He first broke onto the big stage with AS Monaco, before sealing a staggering transfer to the Middle East earlier in the year.
He has since scored six goals and provided two assists in just nine matches across all competitions and will be in contention for his debut with games against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau to come on the 25th and 29th, respectively.
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Isaac James
Isaac James is another player who has earned a maiden invitation to the Super Eagles and will be aiming to mark the feat by making his debut.
The Alverca left-back has majorly been called up majorly due to the injury suffered by Zaidu Sanusi, which has left Chelle very short of options in the left-back position.
The 22-year-old has impressed in that role for his club side and will be hoping to carry that form to the national stage if handed the chance.
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Moses Usor
Moses Usor represents another exciting player Nigerians are looking forward to see in action for the national team. The 24-year-old enjoyed a superb season with Austrian side LASK in the 2025-26 campaign.
He helped them to the Austrian league and cup double honours and also to qualification for the UEFA Champions League for the first time in the club’s history this season.
