Portugal-based striker Umar Abubakar earns first Nigeria call-up

Portugal-based striker Umar Abubakar has received his first invitation to the Super Eagles squad ahead of Nigeria’s friendly against Russia on October 6, according to OwnGoal Nigeria. The former Nigeria U17 forward is among the players coach Eric Chelle plans to assess as he builds a squad for the upcoming Olympic qualifiers.

Abubakar will compete with Benfica B forward Peter Edokpolor and Hradec Kralove striker Abdullahi Umar for a place in the attack. Chelle is targeting Nigeria’s first Olympic qualification since 2016, with the qualifying campaign set to begin in November. The players will also feature alongside senior internationals.