The 2026 Unity Cup reached a thrilling conclusion over the weekend, with Nigeria emerging as triumphant champions after a decisive 3-0 victory over Jamaica in the final held at The Valley in London.
As the reigning champions, the Super Eagles entered the four-nation tournament as strong favorites. They secured their place in the final by defeating Zimbabwe 2-0 in the semifinal, while Jamaica advanced by overcoming India in the other semifinal match.
Millwall winger Femi Azeez netted both goals for Nigeria against Zimbabwe, paving the way for the final. In the championship match, Alhassan Yusuf scored twice and Terem Moffi added another to secure the trophy for the West African side.
Head coach Eric Chelle made only one alteration to the starting lineup that beat Zimbabwe, bringing in Rafiu Durosinmi from Pisa Sporting in place of Hamburger’s Philip Otele. Chelle’s squad dominated the final, keeping two clean sheets across both tournament matches.
Notably, Chelle achieved this success without key players such as Victor Osimhen, Alex Iwobi, Calvin Bassey, Ademola Lookman, Wilfried Ndidi, and Paul Onuachu. Instead, he blended local talents from the Nigeria Premier Professional League (NPFL), including Enugu Rangers duo Chibueze Oputa and Kenneth Igboke, with overseas-based stars.
Eagle Stars FC coach Isma’il Musa praised the performance of three debutants who impressed during the tournament. Speaking to DAILY POST, Musa highlighted the contributions of Enugu Rangers’ Chibueze Oputa, Wrexham goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo, and Millwall’s Femi Azeez. “These three players did well in their debuts under Chelle,” Musa remarked.
Musa also commended Chelle’s tactical approach, noting his ability to blend NPFL and foreign players effectively despite limited preparation time. “Chelle’s identity showed during both matches, especially the Zimbabwe game, as he loves his players to keep the ball and express themselves,” Musa added.
Looking ahead, Nigeria is set to face Poland in an international friendly at the PGE Narodowy Stadium in Warsaw. Azeez has been called up to replace Samuel Chukwueze, while Osimhen and Lookman have withdrawn. Midfielders Alhassan Yusuf and Samson Tijani will miss the match due to visa issues, meaning Chelle will likely rely on many of the players who featured in the Unity Cup.
“Based on what I saw at the Unity Cup, I believe the boys will do well against Poland,” Musa concluded.