Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has handed first-time senior international call-ups to George Ilenikhena, Isaac James and Moses Usor as Nigeria prepares for its upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying matches against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau.
Chelle named a 24-man Super Eagles squad for the crucial Group L fixtures, with Nigeria set to host Madagascar in Uyo on September 25 before travelling to face Guinea-Bissau on September 29.
Tanzania are also in Group L alongside Nigeria, Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau.
The inclusion of Ilenikhena, James and Usor represents a fresh injection of young talent into the Super Eagles squad. All three players have impressed at club level and will now hope to make their senior international debuts for Nigeria.
George Ilenikhena Earns First Super Eagles Call-Up
Twenty-year-old forward George Ilenikhena has earned his first senior invitation after making an impressive start to the season with Al Ittihad.
Born in Lagos, Ilenikhena began his football career in France with Amiens before moving to Royal Antwerp, where he continued his development and attracted the attention of several top European clubs.
The young striker later joined Monaco, where he gained valuable experience and became particularly prominent through his performances in the UEFA Champions League.
Ilenikhena subsequently moved to Al Ittihad earlier this year. Although fitness problems initially restricted his playing time, the Nigerian-born forward has started the new campaign strongly.
He has reportedly registered six goals and two assists in nine appearances across all competitions, highlighting his growing attacking influence.
Ilenikhena previously represented France at youth level but has now committed his senior international future to Nigeria.
With Victor Osimhen and Paul Onuachu dealing with fitness concerns, the youngster could be handed an opportunity to make his Super Eagles debut during the upcoming AFCON qualifiers.
Isaac James Receives First Senior Nigeria Invitation
Isaac James has also received his first senior Super Eagles call-up following a series of impressive performances for Portuguese club Alverca.
The 22-year-old defender has established himself as a left-back option and could provide additional depth for Nigeria following Zaidu Sanusi’s injury.
James’ performances at club level have caught the attention of the Super Eagles technical team, earning him an opportunity to compete for a place in Chelle’s squad.
The defender has also been included for Nigeria’s friendly against Russia on October 6, potentially giving him another chance to make his senior international debut if selected.
His versatility and recent club form will be closely monitored as he seeks to establish himself within the Super Eagles setup.
Moses Usor Completes Super Eagles’ New Invitees
Moses Usor completes the trio of first-time invitees after an impressive 2025/26 campaign with Austrian club LASK.
The 24-year-old forward played an important role in LASK’s successful campaign, helping the club secure a league and cup double.
LASK also secured qualification for the UEFA Champions League, further underlining the significance of Usor’s contribution during the campaign.
The forward will now have the opportunity to showcase his abilities on the international stage as he begins his journey with the Super Eagles.
Usor’s pace, attacking ability and club experience could provide another option for Chelle as Nigeria prepares for its upcoming AFCON qualifying fixtures.
Super Eagles Face Crucial AFCON Qualifiers
Nigeria will begin the latest phase of its 2027 AFCON qualification campaign against Madagascar in Uyo before travelling to Guinea-Bissau four days later.
For Ilenikhena, James and Usor, the fixtures could mark the beginning of their senior international careers.
Chelle will hope the new additions can make an immediate impact while helping the Super Eagles strengthen their position in Group L.
The three players will also be looking to use the opportunity to establish themselves as regular members of Nigeria’s senior national team.