Unity Cup 2025: Uche, Dennis, Dessers on alert as Chelle & Ekong confirm Brentford tourney

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle and vice-captain William Troost-Ekong have officially confirmed Nigeria’s participation in the Unity Cup Invitational Tournament 2025, Soccernet.ng reports.

As earlier announced by the Ghana Football Association, the tournament—previously without a confirmed venue—is now set to take place at the Gtech Community Stadium in Brentford, West London.

The tournament, slated for the final days of May 2025, will feature Nigeria, Ghana, Jamaica, and Trinidad & Tobago in what organizers describe as an Afro-Caribbean football festival to unite the countries.

Charlie, make we meet in London. The Unity Cup. Eagles Ready #soarsupereagles #UnityCup2025 pic.twitter.com/6JTMumD6Iq

— Super Eagles (@NGSuperEagles) April 10, 2025

Speaking ahead of the tournament, Chelle revealed his excitement at the opportunity to assess new talents and test his tactics ahead of the upcoming clashes in the year.

“We’re looking forward to taking part in the Unity Cup as it will give us the chance to try out a few new players in different roles, helping us to strengthen our squad before the matches in September and October,” Chelle said, as quoted by NFF Comms.

Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong revealed that the mini-tournament will prepare them ahead of their crucial World Cup qualifying preparations.

“This is a great tournament for us to reunite and continue strategizing for the upcoming World Cup qualifying games,” the Al-Kholood defender noted.

Earlier in a similar exhibition, the Super Eagles suffered a humbling 4-1 defeat to the Black Stars of Ghana in London.

This year’s edition, however, is an opportunity for redemption as Nigeria kicks off their campaign in the semi-final against the Black Stars on May 28, a day after Jamaica face Trinidad & Tobago in the TriniJam Derby.

With Chelle set to rotate his squad, players like Christantus Uche, Anthony Dennis, Cyriel Dessers and a host of other players have been placed on alert as they eye minutes in the national setup.

The tournament could serve as a proving ground for fringe players aiming to stake their claim ahead of the competitive fixtures later in the year.

The four-team event will culminate in a double-header on May 31, featuring the third-place playoff and the final to determine the Unity Cup champion.

Former Jamaican international and ambassador for Brentford FC, Marcus Gayle, expressed delight at hosting the event:

“We’re thrilled to welcome the Unity Cup back and to host it here at the Gtech Community Stadium. This tournament will not only showcase elite football talent from Africa and the Caribbean, but also celebrate the deep cultural and sporting ties between these regions. It’s a brilliant platform for players to shine, and we’re excited about the entertainment and community spirit the tournament brings.”

The 17,250-capacity stadium, home to Premier League side Brentford, is expected to be packed with fans from all four nations.