Leverkusen winger and Slavia defender step up ahead of national team selection.
Nigerian internationals Nathan Tella and Igoh Ogbu have strengthened their cases for a call-up to the upcoming Unity Cup after scoring their first goals of the 2025/26 season for their respective European clubs.
Both players delivered standout performances over the weekend, sending a strong message to Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle, who is expected to hand opportunities to fringe players and emerging talents for the tournament.
Tella Shines in Leverkusen’s Big Win
Tella was in impressive form for Bayer Leverkusen, scoring and providing an assist in a commanding 4-1 victory over RB Leipzig in the Bundesliga.
The Nigerian forward played a key role in the opening goal, setting up Patrik Schick in the 25th minute before getting on the scoresheet himself just before halftime with a composed finish.
It marked his first goal of the campaign and one of his most influential performances this season, underlining his growing importance in Leverkusen’s attacking setup.
Ogbu Off the Mark in Czech League
Meanwhile, Igoh Ogbu, who plays as a centre-back for Slavia Prague, also opened his goal account in their 2-1 win over Slovan Liberec.
The 26-year-old defender scored in the 18th minute, guiding home a cross from Lukáš Provod to give his side an early advantage.
Ogbu’s goal was particularly significant given his limited playing time this season due to injuries and competition for places, having made only a handful of starts prior to the match.
Unity Cup Opportunity Beckons
With the Unity Cup approaching, both players appear to be hitting form at the right time.
Coach Eric Chelle has already indicated plans to include a mix of fringe Super Eagles players, home-based talents, and Nigeria-eligible stars in the squad for the tournament.
Tella, who has struggled for consistent national team involvement in recent months, and Ogbu, still relatively new to the senior squad, will see their recent performances as timely boosts in their quest for selection.
Nigerian Stars Making Impact Abroad
The performances of Tella and Ogbu highlight the continued impact of Nigerian players across Europe, with both players stepping up when it matters most.
Tella’s attacking contributions and Ogbu’s defensive solidity—combined with his ability to chip in with goals—demonstrate the depth of talent available to the Super Eagles ahead of upcoming international competitions.
Race for Super Eagles Spots Intensifies
With competition for places in the national team growing stronger, consistent performances at club level remain crucial.
For Tella and Ogbu, their breakthrough goals this season could prove decisive as they aim to secure spots in Nigeria’s Unity Cup squad and stake a claim for more regular roles in the Super Eagles setup.