EFL stars Femi Azeez, Arthur Okonkwo, and Owen Oseni have joined the Super Eagles camp in London ahead of the 2026 Unity Cup, marking their first call-ups to Nigeria’s senior national team. The trio earned their invitations after standout performances in the English Championship and League One during the 2023-2024 season. Their arrival signals a new chapter for the Super Eagles as they prepare to defend their title in the invitational tournament, which will feature Zimbabwe, India, and Jamaica. The team’s first training session is scheduled for Saturday evening at Cray Valley FC in Middle Park Avenue, London.
Arthur Okonkwo, a product of Arsenal’s academy, played a pivotal role in Wrexham’s successful campaign, recording ten clean sheets in 39 league appearances. His consistency between the posts earned him widespread praise and cemented his place in the national team setup. Femi Azeez, who shone for Millwall, contributed 11 goals and eight assists in 35 league matches, helping his side reach the playoffs. Although Millwall’s promotion bid ended in a semifinal loss to Hull City, led by Semi Ajayi, Azeez’s form remains a key reason for his selection.
Owen Oseni also made a strong impression with Plymouth Argyle, scoring seven goals and adding five assists in 27 league appearances. His dynamic performances have caught the attention of the Super Eagles coaching staff, leading to his inclusion in the squad. Alongside the EFL trio, other players in camp include Shooting Stars stars Junior Ayobami, Al Ameen Tijani, Michael Atata, Adeoye Aderemi, Oputa Chibueze, Ighoke Obinna, Ocholi Elias, and Oyedokun Tosin. Also present are Philip Otele, Nnadi Tochukwu, and Terem Moffi, adding depth and experience to the squad.
The Unity Cup will take place in London, with Nigeria aiming to successfully defend the title they won in 2025 at the Gtech Community Stadium. Their campaign kicks off on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, with a semifinal clash against Zimbabwe at The Valley in Charlton. A victory would secure Nigeria’s place in the final, where they would face the winner of the other semifinal between India and Jamaica. The tournament serves as a crucial platform for the Super Eagles to build momentum ahead of future international fixtures, while also showcasing the growing talent emerging from Nigerian players abroad.
With a mix of fresh faces and experienced campaigners, the Super Eagles are poised to make a strong statement in the 2026 Unity Cup. The inclusion of players from the EFL highlights the increasing influence of Nigerian talent in English football and sets the stage for an exciting tournament. As preparations continue, fans across Nigeria will be watching closely, hopeful that the team can deliver another championship triumph.
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