Super Eagles Name Starting XI for Unity Cup Opener Against Zimbabwe
Nigeria head coach Eric Chelle has announced the Super Eagles starting lineup for their 2026 Unity Cup opening match against Zimbabwe, set for today, May 26 at The Valley in Charlton, London, with kickoff at 7:30 pm.
Chelle blends experience with fresh talent as Nigeria looks to defend its Unity Cup title and reach the final of the four‑nation tournament.
Maduka Okonkwo will keep goal, backed by defenders Oputa, Igboke, Abdullahi and Ogbuderati. The midfield will be anchored by Nwaiwu, Azeez Beloso and Nnadi, while Moffic, Tijani and Otele lead the attack.
The bench includes Uzoho, Atata, Oyedokun, Adeoye, Elias, Durosinmi, Oseni and Ayobami, giving the coach tactical options if the game tightens.
A win would send the Super Eagles into the final, where they will face either Jamaica or India, while the losing semi‑finalists contest the third‑place playoff on Saturday.
The Unity Cup, hosted in London from May 26 to May 30, features Nigeria, Zimbabwe, Jamaica and India, with Nigeria aiming to retain the trophy and secure Chelle a second consecutive Unity Cup title as head coach.
Nigeria Starting XI: Okonkwo, Oputa, Igboke, Abdullahi, Ogbuderati, Nwaiwu, Azeez Beloso, Nnadi, Moffic, Tijani, Otele.
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