Nigeria’s Super Eagles have scheduled an international friendly against Jordan in Amman next month, even as their 2026 World Cup fate remains uncertain. The match is expected to hold during the March 23–31 FIFA window and would be the first ever senior meeting between the two countries.
Jordan, nicknamed The Chivalrous Ones, will use the game as part of preparations for their debut World Cup appearance, where they will face Argentina, Algeria and Austria in the group stage. For Nigeria, the fixture is designed to keep the team active and assess new players while waiting for FIFA’s verdict on their eligibility protest against DR Congo.
The Nigeria Football Federation has challenged DR Congo’s use of several players in last year’s African play off final, claiming they switched allegiance without fully meeting FIFA rules and referencing dual citizenship issues. A decision on the case is expected around mid February and could either confirm Nigeria’s elimination or hand them a lifeline via the inter confederation play off in Mexico.
If FIFA rules in Nigeria’s favour and the team enters the play off tournament, officials say the March schedule will be adjusted to prioritise competitive fixtures. If the appeal fails, the Jordan friendly will go ahead as planned, forming part of a rebuilding programme ahead of future competitions.
Reports also indicate that Iran and Portugal are in talks to face Nigeria in separate friendlies later in 2026, depending on how the World Cup situation unfolds. The NFF says arranging high level games underlines its determination to keep the Super Eagles competitive regardless of the outcome of the DR Congo case.
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