Nwaiwu Steps In for Bassey in Turkey-Based International Friendlies

Nwaiwu Steps In for Injured Bassey as Super Eagles Prepare for International Friendlies

Trabzonspor midfielder Chibuike Nwaiwu has been drafted into the Nigerian Super Eagles squad, tasked with filling the void left by the injured Calvin Bassey. The Super Eagles are set to participate in a series of international friendlies against Jordan and Iran, to be held in Turkey. Nwaiwu’s inclusion was officially confirmed on Thursday, a day after Bassey was forced to withdraw due to his injury.

The 22-year-old, a former player for Nigeria Premier Football League champions Enyimba, brings a versatile skillset to the national team. His ability to operate effectively as a centre-back makes him a particularly suitable replacement for Fulham defender Bassey, adding defensive depth to the squad.

Nwaiwu’s move to Turkish club Trabzonspor occurred during the January transfer window, having previously played for Wolfsberger AC. Since his arrival, he has demonstrated impressive form, contributing significantly to his team’s efforts. Across 28 appearances in all competitions for Trabzonspor, he has recorded three goals and provided one assist, underscoring his impact on the field. His strong performances had already garnered attention, with local media frequently highlighting him as a prime candidate for the Super Eagles manager Eric Chelle’s selection for an anticipated four-nation invitational tournament.

The Super Eagles’ camp commenced on Tuesday in Antalya, Turkey. Initially, 15 players arrived to begin preparations. The following morning, more squad members joined, including the team captain Wilfred Ndidi, swelling the total number of players in camp to 22. This gathering marks the team’s first assembly since their commendable third-place finish at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, which took place in Morocco.

The international friendlies are scheduled as follows:

• Nigeria vs. Iran: Friday, with kick-off at 4:00 pm Nigerian time.
• Nigeria vs. Jordan: Next Tuesday, March 31, with kick-off at 8:00 pm.

Both of these crucial fixtures have been relocated to Turkey. This decision was necessitated by security concerns and prevailing tensions in parts of the Middle East, which rendered the originally designated venue in Amman unsuitable for the matches.

While these friendly matches occur concurrently with the final stages of the 2026 World Cup play-offs, they hold significant importance for the Super Eagles. They represent the commencement of a new chapter for the team, particularly in the wake of their disappointment in failing to qualify for the upcoming World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico. This period of rebuilding and strategic planning is vital as the team looks to re-establish itself on the international stage.

Nwaiwu’s call-up, though under unfortunate circumstances due to Bassey’s injury, presents him with a valuable opportunity to showcase his talents on the international level and contribute to the Super Eagles’ future endeavors. His adaptability and recent form suggest he could be a key player in the squad’s ongoing development.