Super Eagles assistant coach Fidelis Ilechukwu has called on the home-based players invited to the national team to maximize their opportunity, using it as a stepping stone to secure moves abroad and elevate their professional careers.
Head coach Eric Chelle recently named nine Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) players in his 26-man squad for the upcoming Unity Cup—a decision that has been widely applauded by football stakeholders in the country. Ilechukwu praised Chelle for recognizing domestic talent and providing them with a platform to prove themselves at a higher level.
In an exclusive interview with All Nigeria Soccer, Ilechukwu highlighted the importance of the call-ups in boosting the confidence of home-based players across the NPFL.
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“I am delighted that Rangers players were invited. The head coach is doing a fantastic job, and the opportunity he is giving NPFL players is invaluable,” Ilechukwu said. “This is exactly what we have been hoping for, and we thank God that these players are getting their chance. It’s a huge morale booster for home-based players—they now believe that if they perform well, they too can earn a spot in the Super Eagles.”
The assistant coach urged the invited players to remain disciplined, follow the manager’s tactical instructions, and continue improving their game to attract interest from foreign clubs.
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“They must realize that thousands of players across Nigeria are dreaming of this opportunity,” he emphasized. “They have to stay focused, work hard, and pray that this chance opens doors to bigger opportunities abroad.”
Nigeria is set to compete in a four-nation tournament alongside Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, and Ghana. The Super Eagles will face Ghana in the second semifinal at the Gtech Community Stadium, presenting another stage for the home-based stars to shine.
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This move by the coaching staff signals a renewed commitment to integrating local talent into the national team, fostering growth within the domestic league while offering players a pathway to international recognition.
