Meet The 12 Uncapped Players in Nigeria’s Unity Cup Squad

Meet The 12 Uncapped Players in Nigeria’s Unity Cup Squad

By BSN Sports 

Éric Chelle has named 12 uncapped players in his 27-man squad for the 2026 Unity Cup, signalling a bold blend of youth, home-based talent and emerging overseas prospects ahead of the tournament in London, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The Unity Cup, scheduled to begin on May 26, will feature Nigeria, Jamaica, India and Zimbabwe, with the Super Eagles aiming to defend the title they won in the previous edition.

Chelle had earlier hinted that several new players would be given opportunities, and the final squad reflects that promise, with strong representation from the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) and the English Football League (EFL).

NPFL Players Earn First Senior National Team Call-Ups

Seven players from the NPFL received maiden invitations to the senior national team, underlining Chelle’s interest in rewarding standout domestic performances.

Ikorodu City F.C. contributed the highest number of players among the home-based contingent, with goalkeeper Michael Atata, defender Aderemi Adeoye and midfielder Tosin Oyedokun all included.

Defending NPFL champions Rangers International F.C. saw Chibueze Oputa and Obinna Igboke earn places in the squad, while Rivers United F.C. defender Elias Ochobi and Shooting Stars Sports Club playmaker Ayobami Junior completed the list.

Ayobami has been one of the league’s standout creative players this season, registering 13 assists to lead the NPFL playmaking charts. Oyedokun has also impressed with four goals and four assists for Ikorodu City.

Goalkeeper Michael Atata earned recognition after a remarkable campaign in which he kept 16 clean sheets, establishing himself as one of the league’s top performers.

Defender Chibueze Oputa has also enjoyed a breakthrough season, recording six assists — the highest by any defender in the NPFL this term — while Ochobi has been praised for his consistency and defensive discipline for Rivers United.

Yohanna and Durosinmi Among Exciting Overseas Prospects

Teenage winger Zadok Yohanna is one of the most exciting names in the squad following his impressive performances for AIK Fotboll in the Swedish Allsvenskan.

The 18-year-old has contributed two goals and three assists in seven league appearances and is already attracting interest from several European clubs.

Forward Rafiu Durosinmi also received a surprise invitation despite limited impact recently with Pisa Sporting Club. Known for his physical presence and technical ability, Durosinmi is regarded as a forward with significant long-term potential.

EFL Trio Add International Experience and Depth

Among the overseas-based newcomers are three players from the English Football League.

Striker Owen Oseni earned selection after scoring seven goals and providing five assists in 27 appearances for Plymouth Argyle F.C..

Winger Femi Azeez arrives following an outstanding campaign with Millwall F.C., where he recorded 11 goals and eight assists in 35 matches. His performances have reportedly attracted interest from several Premier League clubs.

Goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo, currently with Wrexham A.F.C., also earned a call-up after keeping 10 clean sheets in 39 league games during the season.

The former Arsenal academy goalkeeper is expected to compete strongly for a place in the Super Eagles setup as Chelle continues to reshape the squad ahead of future international competitions.