Nigerian winger Samuel Chukwueze has officially joined the Super Eagles in Lisbon, completing a near-full squad of 22 players ahead of Nigeria’s highly anticipated international friendly against Portugal on June 10. The 27-year-old Fulham forward, currently on loan from AC Milan, arrived in Portugal after a personal absence due to the passing of his mother, whom he laid to rest. His return marks a crucial boost for head coach Eric Chelle as the team prepares for one of its most challenging fixtures of the year.
Chukwueze’s arrival comes after he missed Nigeria’s recent 2-2 draw against Poland, a match that saw the Super Eagles perform well despite his absence. His presence now adds vital depth and quality to the attacking lineup, especially with his known pace, dribbling skills, and experience in high-pressure matches. The winger is expected to bring creativity and directness to the frontline, qualities that will be tested against Portugal’s formidable defense.
Alongside fellow Fulham teammates Alex Iwobi and Calvin Bassey, Chukwueze strengthens a squad that has already shown promise in recent games. The Super Eagles landed in Lisbon following their match in Poland, with 19 players traveling directly. They were later joined by Iwobi, Genk defender Christian Akpan, and now Chukwueze, completing the majority of the squad. One player, Rafiu Durosinmi, was excused for personal reasons, leaving the team with a solid contingent for the upcoming friendly.
The match against Portugal in Leiria is more than just a friendly—it serves as Portugal’s final warm-up before the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers and offers Nigeria a valuable opportunity to test itself against one of Europe’s top teams. Portugal’s squad includes global stars like Cristiano Ronaldo and Bruno Fernandes, making this fixture a true measure of Nigeria’s current form and readiness.
Chukwueze, known for his explosive runs and ability to create scoring chances, will be eager to earn a starting spot. His sharpness and recovery from personal grief will be closely watched by coaches and fans alike. The match is also a key moment for the Super Eagles to build momentum ahead of future international competitions, including the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
As the team finalizes preparations in Lisbon, the inclusion of Chukwueze signals a strong statement of intent. His return not only strengthens the squad but also renews hope for a competitive performance against a world-class opponent. This friendly could set the tone for Nigeria’s campaign in the coming months.
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