Nwaiwu Gets Late Super Eagles Opportunity
Midfielder and defender Chibuike Nwaiwu has received a late call-up to the Super Eagles squad after Calvin Bassey withdrew through injury ahead of Nigeria’s friendlies against Iran and Jordan.
The Nigeria Football Federation confirmed Bassey’s withdrawal on Wednesday. A day later, the team added Nwaiwu to Eric Chelle’s squad in Antalya. The 22-year-old now gets a major chance to break into the senior national team setup.
Trabzonspor Form Earns Reward
Nwaiwu joined Turkish side Trabzonspor in January after leaving Austrian club Wolfsberger AC, and the move was officially registered by the Turkish Football Federation in early January.
Since then, he has impressed with his versatility and physical presence. He can play in midfield, but he also operates comfortably at centre-back, which makes him a practical replacement for Bassey.
His recent performances in Turkey have strengthened his case. He notably scored twice in Trabzonspor’s league win over Fatih Karagümrük last month and has also contributed an assist since arriving.
Super Eagles Camp Nears Full Strength
Nigeria opened camp in Antalya on Tuesday with 15 players. By Wednesday, the number had risen to 22 after more arrivals, including captain Wilfred Ndidi.
The squad is preparing for two friendly matches in Turkey. Nigeria will face Iran first before taking on Jordan in their second fixture.
Both games were moved from Amman to Antalya because of regional security concerns, giving the Super Eagles a neutral and controlled environment for this international window.
Fresh Faces In Chelle’s Squad
Nwaiwu now joins a growing list of fresh options in Chelle’s team.
The coach has already handed opportunities to players such as Emmanuel Fernandez, Philip Otele and Collins Yira Sor. With Bassey out, Nwaiwu’s inclusion gives the coaching crew another flexible option at the back and in midfield.
That flexibility could prove useful as Chelle continues to reshape the squad following Nigeria’s bronze medal finish at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
Iran Clash Comes First
Nigeria will face Iran later today at the Antalya Stadium before taking on Jordan on Tuesday.
The match against Iran will be only the third meeting between both countries. Nigeria won their first clash in 1998, while the 2014 FIFA World Cup group stage meeting ended in a goalless draw.
For Nwaiwu, this call-up could mark the beginning of a much bigger international journey if he takes his chance.
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