Ric Chelle to Scout Players for Unity Cup 2026

Coach Ric Chelle, the current coach of the Nigerian national football team, is set to scout players from the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) and uncap Nigerian players abroad in preparation for the 2026 Unity Cup. This invitational tournament will take place in London from May 26 to May 30, 2026, where Nigeria will defend the title it won last year against teams such as India, Jamaica, and Zimbabwe.

Chelle indicated that both NPFL stars and foreign-based uncap players will be given opportunities to feature in the tournament, which will also serve as a platform to assess new talent ahead of international friendlies against Portugal and Poland in June. The Unity Cup will follow a knockout format, with Nigeria set to clash with Zimbabwe in the opening semi-final, a rematch following their recent FIFA World Cup qualifying encounter.

The tournament aims to showcase a mix of entertainment and culture, with Nigeria looking to retain its title.