Nigerian winger Samuel Chukwueze has joined the Super Eagles in Lisbon, bringing the squad to a near-complete total of 22 players ahead of a major international friendly against the hosts, Portugal.
At a glance
- Samuel Chukwueze linked up with the Super Eagles in Lisbon to bring the squad to 22 players.
- The 27-year-old is a Fulham forward on loan from AC Milan.
- He missed recent matches, including a 2-2 draw versus Poland, after the death of his mother.
- Chukwueze is expected to add pace, dribbling creativity, and top-level experience to coach Eric Chelle’s plans.
- Portugal’s squad includes Cristiano Ronaldo and Bruno Fernandes.
- Rafiu Durosinmi was released from the camp for personal reasons.
- The friendly is set for June 10 in Leiria, Portugal.
The 27-year-old Fulham attacker, currently on loan from AC Milan, arrived after missing earlier fixtures. His absence came as he dealt with the passing of his mother, who he has since laid to rest.
His return at this stage is a timely lift for Coach Eric Chelle, particularly as Nigeria moves into one of the most challenging tests of the year. With the game looming, adding a forward of his quality strengthens the team’s attacking depth and options.
Chukwueze is expected to bring directness in the final third, with the sort of pace and dribbling flair that can unsettle even well-organised defenses. He also arrives with proven experience on big international stages.
He is set to link up with fellow club colleagues Alex Iwobi and Calvin Bassey, as Nigeria prepares to take on a Portugal side packed with star power. The hosts will be led by the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo and Bruno Fernandes.
The Super Eagles reached Lisbon after completing their assignment against Poland. Nineteen players travelled first, before being joined in stages by Iwobi, Genk defender Christian Akpan, and now Chukwueze.
Rafiu Durosinmi, meanwhile, was granted leave for personal reasons. The friendly, scheduled for June 10 in Leiria, is Portugal’s last warm-up before the 2026 FIFA World Cup and a key stepping stone for Nigeria as they build toward upcoming competitions.
