 |
| Super Eagles Call-up Isaac James - Naija Football Daily |
Isaac James, a 22-year-old defender for Portuguese club Alverca, has received his first senior call-up to Nigeria’s Super Eagles.
Head coach Eric Chelle included the left-back in the 24-man squad for the opening 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. James, born on 28 August 2004 in Okpo, Olamaboro Local Government Area of Kogi State, began his career with Garden City Panthers in Nigeria.
He later moved to French side Lorient, where he contributed to a Ligue 2 title and promotion, before joining Alverca in 2025.
The invitation comes after a strong start to the 2026/27 Primeira Liga season. James has started all six of Alverca’s league matches, playing 514 minutes and recording two assists.
His latest outing was a 3-1 away win at Nacional on 12 September. Chelle turned to the versatile player, who can operate at left-back, left wing-back or left-sided centre-back, following an injury to regular left-back Zaidu Sanusi. Reflecting on the moment, James said: “Today, seeing my performances attract the attention of the Nigerian national team, the Super Eagles, and being reported as called up for the upcoming 2027 AFCON qualifiers, is a moment I can only describe as God’s grace and a dream taking shape.”
Nigeria will host Madagascar on 25 September at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo before travelling to face Guinea-Bissau on 29 September.
On 23 September the official Super Eagles account released a video in which James reflected on his maiden senior call-up and the significance of representing Nigeria.
His Portuguese club Alverca publicly congratulated him on the selection for the qualifying matches. James has joined the national team camp as preparations continue for the fixtures.
0 Comments