Super Eagles coach Chelle invites midfielder Ajasa for Russia friendly
Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has invited Rostov midfielder Ibraheem Mahfus Ajasa to join the squad for the international friendly against Russia on Tuesday, October 6, 2026. The call-up comes after captain Wilfred Ndidi withdrew from the match due to injury, leaving a gap in the midfield. Ajasa, who joined the Russian club last year, said he hopes to earn his first cap for Nigeria in the fixture.
The Super Eagles are preparing for the match in Nizhny Novgorod, where they began camp ahead of the encounter. This follows a disappointing 3-0 loss to Guinea-Bissau in a 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier a few days earlier, which raised concerns about the team’s creativity and defensive stability in midfield.
Chelle sees Ajasa as an additional option to add balance and energy to the middle of the park. The youngster's experience in the Russian Premier League could provide fresh legs and tactical flexibility as Nigeria looks to rebuild after the Guinea-Bissau setback.
Will Ajasa's debut help steady the Eagles' midfield and offer a long-term solution, or will he need more time to adapt to the national team's pace and expectations?