Nigeria's Super Eagles aren't underestimating Jamaica in Saturday's Unity Cup final at Charlton Athletic Stadium in London. Coach Eric Chelle has warned that complacency could prove costly ahead of the clash.
Chelle praised his squad after they dismantled Zimbabwe 2-0 in Tuesday's semifinal. But the Malian coach hinted he'll tinker with his lineup and tactics before facing the Reggae Boyz.
Nigeria and Jamaica played out this exact final on May 31, 2025. The match ended 2-2, but the Super Eagles won 5-4 on penalties to retain their crown.
History between the nations runs deep. Nigeria won the inaugural 2002 edition with a goal from James Obiorah, then triumphed again in 2004 when Ireland joined the competition.
Bartholomew Ogbeche netted three times in that 2004 tournament. Obafemi Martins also announced himself on the international stage with a goal on his Nigeria debut during that competition.
Chelle is expected to maintain his experimental approach in Saturday's final. Arthur Okonkwo, the Wrexham goalkeeper, kept a clean sheet against Zimbabwe and should start again.
His back four could remain unchanged too. Chibueze Oputa, Chibuike Nwaiwu, Igoh Ogbu and Obinna Igboke impressed during the semifinal display.
Ogbu recently broke through with the senior team during last year's Unity Cup competition. He plays for Slavia Prague in the Czech Republic.
Midfield duties will likely fall to Tochukwu Nnadi partnering Alhassan Yusuf and Samson Tijani. Both Yusuf and Tijani have featured throughout the tournament.
Attacking options look particularly sharp for Nigeria right now. Terem Moffi, Philip Otele and debutant Femi Azeez spearheaded the attack against Zimbabwe.
Azeez's performance has genuinely caught everyone's attention. The winger netted twice on his international debut against the Zimbabweans.
He became the first player to score a brace on Nigeria debut since Mathias Obianika did it 55 years ago. Obianika netted twice in a 4-0 victory over Burkina Faso.
Chelle has other attacking weapons available on the bench. Francis Uzoho, Owen Oseni and Rafiu Durosinmi all impressed coming off the bench in the semifinal.
Midfielder Tosin Oyedokun also remains available for selection if needed. Backup goalkeeper Uzoho gives Chelle solid depth in his squad.
