International Friendly: Eagles Target Back-to-Back Wins Against Jordan in Antalya
The Super Eagles of Nigeria are aiming to secure consecutive victories when they face Jordan’s Al-Nashama in an international friendly on Tuesday, following their 2-1 triumph over Iran last Friday in Antalya.
Head Coach Eric Chelle expressed confidence that his side can build on the momentum from the win against Team Melli, where goals from Moses Simon and Akor Adams sealed the result at Corendon Airlines Park.
Despite the absence of defenders Semi Ajayi and Bruno Onyemaechi, who left camp after the birth of his child, Chelle has been working with the 21 players available, putting them through intensive training on Monday evening.
Jordan, who have qualified for the FIFA World Cup, present a formidable challenge. Ranked 64th in the world, they have lost only once in their last five matches, a narrow 3-2 defeat to Morocco, semifinalists at the 2022 World Cup.
Their recent record includes victories over Saudi Arabia, Iraq, and Egypt, as well as a thrilling 2-2 draw with Costa Rica.
Chelle is expected to pair Czech-based Igoh Ogbu with a new central defensive partner, while Portugal-based Zaidu Sanusi is likely to step in for Onyemaechi.
Bright Osayi-Samuel will continue at right back. In midfield, Alex Iwobi is set to earn his 98th cap alongside captain Wilfred Ndidi, with options including Frank Onyeka, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, and Raphael Onyedika.
Up front, Moses Simon, who is in line for his 97th cap, may lead the attack with support from Samuel Chukwueze, Akor Adams, or Ademola Lookman. Other attacking options include Paul Onuachu, Chidera Ejuke, and newcomers Philip Otele and Collins Yira Sor.
Nigeria remain unbeaten in regulation time across their last five matches, including wins over Algeria, Mozambique, and Iran, and a penalty shootout victory against Egypt in the Africa Cup of Nations third-place playoff.
This will be the third senior international meeting between Nigeria and Jordan. The Super Eagles won 2-0 in Lagos during the LG Cup in April 2004, while Jordan claimed a 1-0 victory in Amman in October 2013. With honours shared, Tuesday’s clash promises to be a decisive encounter in their budding rivalry.
