Nigeria claimed the 2026 Unity Cup title after a dominant victory over Jamaica in the final at The Valley, London.
The Super Eagles, who entered the four-team competition as defending champions, booked their place in the final with a 2-0 win over Zimbabwe, while Jamaica advanced after overcoming India in the other semi-final.
Millwall winger Femi Azeez scored both goals against Zimbabwe to send Nigeria through.
In the final, Eric Chelle’s side produced another impressive display, defeating Jamaica 3-0 to retain the trophy. Alhassan Yusuf netted twice, while Terem Moffi added the third goal.
Chelle made only one alteration to the team that started against Zimbabwe, with Pisa Sporting forward Rafiu Durosinmi replacing Hamburger’s Philip Otele.
The Super Eagles controlled proceedings throughout the match and secured back-to-back clean sheets in what many consider among Chelle’s most complete performances since taking charge.
The Malian tactician achieved the feat despite being without several key players, including Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, Alex Iwobi, Calvin Bassey, Wilfred Ndidi and Paul Onuachu.
His squad featured a blend of Nigeria Premier Football League players, including Enugu Rangers pair Chibueze Oputa and Kenneth Igboke, alongside foreign-based professionals.
Reacting to the tournament, Eagle Stars FC coach Isma’il Musa commended both the players and Chelle’s approach.
“One of the things that stood out for me from the two games Nigeria played was the mixture of local players from the NPFL and the foreign-based players,” Musa said.
“I like the fact that Eric Chelle was able to combine these players, and some of the local players played very well in both games against Zimbabwe and Jamaica.
“The guy from Enugu Rangers, Chibueze Oputa, was impressive. Even the goalkeeper from Wrexham did a fantastic job of keeping clean, and also Femi Azeez, who played for Millwall. These three players did well in their debuts under Chelle.
“Chelle’s identity showed during both matches, especially the Zimbabwe game, as he loves his players to keep the ball and express themselves.
“I must commend him because he had little time to prepare for the Unity Cup tournament.”
Nigeria will next face Poland in an international friendly at the PGE Narodowy Stadium in Warsaw on Wednesday.
Azeez has been called up to replace Samuel Chukwueze, while Osimhen and Lookman have withdrawn from the squad. Midfielders Alhassan Yusuf and Samson Tijani will also miss the trip due to visa-related issues.
As a result, Chelle is expected to rely largely on the group that delivered the Unity Cup title.
“Based on what I saw at the Unity Cup, I believe the boys will do well against Poland,” Musa added.
