Former Nigeria international Mobi Oparaku has welcomed the blend of experience and new faces in the Super Eagles squad released by head coach Eric Chelle for the upcoming friendlies against Iran national team and Jordan national team.
The matches, now scheduled to take place in Antalya, Turkey, will see Nigeria face Iran on March 27 and Jordan on March 31 following a venue change due to security concerns in the Middle East.
Oparaku praised the inclusion of fresh talents alongside established stars such as Wilfred Ndidi, Alex Iwobi, and Ademola Lookman, noting that the balance is crucial for team development.
“It’s always good to have new players mix with the regulars,” he said.
Among the notable call-ups are goalkeeper Maduka Okoye, midfielder Frank Onyeka, and forwards Samuel Chukwueze, Moses Simon, Akor Adams, and Paul Onuachu.
New invitations were handed to players like Emmanuel Fernandez, Philip Otele, and Collins Yira Sor, while Adebayo Adeleye makes a return to the squad.
Oparaku emphasized that these friendlies provide a valuable opportunity for new players to prove themselves and fight for long-term places in the team.
“It gives them the chance to compete and impress the coaches,” he added.
However, the former defender maintained his disappointment over the omission of Uche Chrisantus, whom he believes deserved a call-up based on recent performances.
“I’m still surprised he wasn’t invited,” he noted.
Overall, Oparaku believes the squad reflects a positive direction, combining experience with emerging talent as the Super Eagles continue to build towards future competitions.
