Super Eagles open camp for Saudi Arabia friendly in Portugal as Jose Peseiro aims to end ugly losing streak

The three-time AFCON winners will test their might against the Green Falcons on Friday 

The Super Eagles of Nigeria will open their camp today (Tuesday) as the former African champions gear up for a set of double-header friendly matches against Saudi Arabia and Mozambique, Soccernet.ng reports.

All 25 invited players are anticipated to convene in Portimao, Portugal, to prepare for these games.

Head coach Jose Peseiro has extended late invitations to three players, namely Tyrone Ebuehi, Umar Sadiq, and Chidozie Awaziem, who will step in for the injured trio of Ola Aina, Taiwo Awoniyi, and Jamilu Collins.

Expectations are high as regulars like Victor Osimhen, Wilfred Ndidi, Alex Iwobi, and Joe Aribo are slated to arrive at the national team camp in the next few hours.

These friendlies serve as crucial preparations for the Super Eagles’ 2026 World Cup qualifying fixtures against Lesotho and Zimbabwe.

The opening match will pit the Super Eagles against Saudi Arabia in Portimao this Friday, followed by a clash with Mozambique’s Mambas just three days later.

Nigeria have encountered difficulties in friendly matches lately, having not clinched a victory in their last 13 friendly encounters since a 1-0 win against Egypt in 2019.

The team has suffered losses in their last six friendly matches, succumbing to Mexico (twice), Ecuador, Algeria, Costa Rica, and Portugal.

Coach Peseiro and his squad will look to break this unpleasant streak when they face Saudi Arabia in Portugal on October 13.