Super Eagles midfielder Alex Iwobi and defender Christian Akpan have joined Nigeria’s training camp in Lisbon as preparations intensify for the international friendly against Portugal.
Iwobi arrived on Thursday to link up with his teammates after missing Nigeria’s recent friendly against Poland, providing a timely boost to the squad ahead of the high-profile encounter.
Akpan, who plays for KRC Genk, has earned his first call-up to the Super Eagles following injuries and withdrawals within the squad. The defender, still relatively unknown to many Nigerian football fans, will be hoping to make his senior debut against Portugal.
On Friday afternoon, winger Samuel Chukwueze also reported to camp, bringing the number of players in Lisbon to 22 as preparations continue.
Chukwueze had missed Nigeria’s recent international assignments, including the Unity Cup and the friendly against Poland, following the death and burial of his mother. He is now expected to fully reintegrate with the squad and take part in training sessions.
Nigeria will face Portugal at the Estádio Municipal de Leiria next Wednesday, with head coach Éric Chelle expected to use the match as an important test ahead of upcoming competitive fixtures.
The latest arrivals have further strengthened the squad as the technical crew continues final preparations for the encounter.
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