Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle is confident his team can continue their impressive run of form as they prepare to face Poland in an international friendly in Warsaw. Since missing out on the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Nigeria has lost only once, a penalty shootout defeat to Morocco at the Africa Cup of Nations.
Recent Success Builds Momentum
Nigeria's recent performances have been encouraging. Last week, they defeated Zimbabwe and Jamaica to retain the Unity Cup in London, scoring five goals without conceding. The run also includes victories over World Cup-bound Iran and a draw against Jordan. Chelle believes the team is developing a winning culture.
“There is a culture of winning that we are trying to build in this team, and that mentality is important,” Chelle said after Monday’s training session. “You can say that it is difficult to have games at this time because the players have been in holiday mood for about two weeks, but the job must be done.”
Poland Seeks Redemption
Poland, led by star striker Robert Lewandowski, will be eager to bounce back after a 2-0 defeat to Ukraine in their recent friendly. With several key players approaching the end of their careers, the match offers a chance to prove their quality. The fixture is only the second senior meeting between the two nations, with Nigeria winning the first encounter 1-0 in 2018 thanks to a Victor Moses penalty.
Team Preparations
Nigeria currently has 19 players in camp, including the arrival of Fisayo Dele-Bashiru. Among those training are goalkeepers Maduka Okoye, Francis Uzoho, and Arthur Okonkwo; defenders Bruno Onyemaechi, Zaidu Sanusi, Emmanuel Fernandez, and Igoh Ogbu; midfielders Frank Onyeka, Raphael Onyedika, and Tochukwu Nnadi; and forwards Moses Simon, Paul Onuachu, Jerome Akor Adams, Terem Moffi, and Rafiu Durosinmi. Defender Semi Ajayi and new invitee Abdullahi Bewene also joined preparations.
Both teams view the match as an opportunity to build momentum for future competitions. Nigeria will aim to extend their winning streak, while Poland looks to return to winning ways.
