Nwaiwu Replaces Injured Bassey As Super Eagles Of Nigeria Face Iran Today

Midfielder Chibuike Nwaiwu has earned a late call-up to the Super Eagles of Nigeria squad after Calvin Bassey withdrew through injury ahead of international friendlies against Iran and Jordan in Turkey.

The inclusion of the versatile Trabzonspor player was confirmed on Thursday, a day after Bassey’s withdrawal. Nwaiwu, 22, who formerly played for Enyimba of Aba, can also operate at centre-back, making him a direct replacement for the Fulham defender.

Since joining Trabzonspor from Wolfsberger AC in January, Nwaiwu has scored three goals and provided one assist in 28 appearances across all competitions.

Naija News reports that the Super Eagles opened camp in Antalya on Tuesday with 15 players before captain Wilfred Ndidi joined the following morning to take the tally to 22.

Nigeria faces Iran on Friday at the Antalya Stadium before meeting Jordan on Tuesday, with both fixtures relocated from Amman due to regional security concerns. The matches mark Nigeria’s first gathering since winning bronze at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Friday’s game will be only the third meeting between Nigeria and Iran. Nigeria won the Carlsberg Cup clash in 1998 thanks to a goal from Ahmed Garba, while their group match at the 2014 World Cup ended goalless.

Nigeria arrived with cautious optimism despite their failed World Cup bid after FIFA rejected a request to disqualify DR Congo from the ongoing intercontinental play-offs. The campaign ended with a penalty defeat to the Leopards, but a bronze finish, secured by beating Egypt, restored some confidence.

Iran travel to Antalya under the guidance of coach Amir Ghalenoei after a mixed run of results, including a defeat to Russia and draws with Cape Verde and Uzbekistan. Off-field uncertainty linked to geopolitical tensions has also clouded preparations.

On the other hand, the Super Eagles are without several key figures. Victor Osimhen is unavailable, Ola Aina is sidelined due to fitness, and goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali misses out after a period without club action. Regular squad members Cyriel Dessers, Chidozie Awaziem and others have also been left out as Chelle reshapes his squad.

Midfielder Alex Iwobi is set to play a leading role as he closes in on his 100th cap, while Semi Ajayi is expected to marshal the defence. Chelle has handed opportunities to uncapped players Emmanuel Fernandez, Philip Otele, Yira Sor and Nwaiwu.

In attack, Ademola Lookman is expected to provide creativity, with Paul Onuachu leading the line.

The Super Eagles of Nigeria clash with Iran is scheduled to kick off at 4 p.m. local time, 2 p.m. Nigerian time later today, March 27.