Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has opened the door to three new faces in Nigeria’s senior national team after handing George Ilenikhena, Isaac James and Moses Usor their first call-ups for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
The trio were included in Chelle’s 24-man squad for Nigeria’s opening Group L fixtures against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau, giving the young players an opportunity to break into the senior international setup. (Punch)
Nigeria will begin its qualifying campaign against Madagascar at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on September 25 before travelling to Bissau for the encounter with Guinea-Bissau on September 29.
While the squad contains established stars such as Victor Osimhen, Wilfred Ndidi, Alex Iwobi and Ademola Lookman, attention will also be on the three newcomers as they seek to establish themselves with the three-time African champions.
George Ilenikhena
The 20-year-old Al-Ittihad forward is arguably the most familiar name among the new invitees, having already attracted attention during his time in European football.
Born in Lagos, Ilenikhena started his career with French side Amiens before moving to Royal Antwerp. His performances in Belgium eventually earned him a move to Monaco, where he featured prominently, including in the UEFA Champions League.
After joining Saudi Pro League side Al-Ittihad earlier this year, the forward initially struggled for regular opportunities because of fitness issues.
He has since enjoyed a strong start to the new campaign, registering six goals and two assists in nine appearances across competitions.
Ilenikhena previously represented France at youth level but has opted to represent Nigeria at senior level.
His inclusion comes as Nigeria prepares for the qualifiers with some uncertainty around the fitness of established forwards, potentially giving the youngster a chance to make his international debut.
Isaac James
Portuguese-based defender Isaac James has also earned his first senior invitation after impressing in the left-back position for Alverca.
The 22-year-old’s emergence comes at a time when Nigeria are dealing with limited options on the left side of defence, particularly following Zaidu Sanusi’s injury.
James will now have the opportunity to compete for a place in Chelle’s squad and train alongside more established Super Eagles defenders.
His versatility and recent club performances have helped bring him into the national team picture, with the defender also included in Nigeria’s plans for the October 6 international friendly against Russia.
Moses Usor
Completing the trio is Moses Usor, the 24-year-old forward who plays for Austrian club LASK.
Usor enjoyed an impressive 2025/26 campaign, playing an important part in LASK’s domestic double as the club claimed both the league and cup titles.
You May Like: Macron Hosts Tinubu to Private Dinner at Élysée Palace in France
LASK’s success also secured Champions League qualification, marking the first time in the club’s history that it reached the competition.
His performances have now earned him a first senior invitation from Nigeria, providing another opportunity for Chelle to assess attacking options ahead of the AFCON qualifying campaign.
With the Super Eagles facing two important fixtures within four days, the three newcomers will be hoping to turn their first call-ups into senior international debuts.
For Ilenikhena, James and Usor, the Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau fixtures represent the beginning of a new chapter in their careers with Nigeria’s senior national team.