Nigeria’s Super Eagles are scheduled to face Jordan in an international friendly in Amman this March, as both sides step up preparations ahead of key international assignments.
The fixture will serve as part of Jordan’s buildup to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where the Middle Eastern nation is set to make its tournament debut. For Nigeria, however, participation in the match remains subject to a pending ruling from FIFA regarding the country’s eligibility protest against the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Officials confirmed that while plans for the friendly are advanced, Nigeria’s final availability will depend on the outcome of that decision. The development adds a layer of uncertainty to what would otherwise be a routine preparatory fixture during the international window.
Jordan’s qualification for the 2026 tournament marks a historic milestone for the country. The World Cup, to be hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, will feature an expanded format, increasing the competitive stakes for debutants seeking to establish credibility on the global stage.
Drawn into a challenging group, Jordan will face reigning champions Argentina, alongside Algeria and Austria. The group composition presents a stern test for head coach Jamal Sellami and his squad as they prepare for their first appearance at football’s biggest tournament.
For Nigeria, the upcoming months are equally significant. The Super Eagles remain engaged in administrative proceedings with FIFA over an eligibility protest involving the Democratic Republic of Congo. The ruling could influence scheduling, competitive standing, and broader planning for the national team.
The proposed friendly in Amman reflects Jordan’s intent to secure high-level opposition ahead of the World Cup. Facing a traditionally strong African side like Nigeria would offer valuable tactical preparation and match fitness.
Nigeria, meanwhile, is exploring multiple options for March. Discussions are ongoing with Iran over a potential second friendly during the same international window. That match, if confirmed, would further strengthen the Super Eagles’ preparatory schedule.
The Jordan fixture is designed to sharpen competitive readiness and test squad depth. For Jordan, the game represents an opportunity to measure defensive organization and attacking fluidity against physically demanding opposition.
Nigeria’s federation officials are monitoring FIFA’s pending decision closely. Should the ruling go against the West Africans, it could affect their eligibility status and alter travel or scheduling plans for March.
The timing of FIFA’s ruling will be decisive. A favorable outcome would clear the path for Nigeria’s participation in both the Jordan and potential Iran friendlies. An adverse decision could force adjustments to fixtures and disrupt preparation cycles.
Jordan’s technical staff has already begun planning logistics for hosting the Super Eagles in Amman, signaling confidence that the match will proceed as scheduled.
In recent weeks, both federations have accelerated efforts to finalize international friendlies ahead of the March window. Jordan’s focus has intensified following the World Cup draw, which placed them in one of the tournament’s most competitive groups.
Nigeria’s administrative situation has unfolded concurrently, introducing uncertainty but also reinforcing the importance of maintaining competitive readiness regardless of off-field developments.
Talks between Nigeria and Iran remain active, according to sources familiar with the discussions. Confirmation of that fixture would provide Nigeria with two high-profile warm-up matches within a short period.
All attention now turns to FIFA’s ruling, which is expected to clarify Nigeria’s immediate competitive outlook.
For Jordan, the March friendly campaign represents a crucial phase in preparing for a historic World Cup debut. For Nigeria, it is both a competitive opportunity and a moment of institutional scrutiny.
The coming weeks will determine whether the Super Eagles take to the field in Amman as planned and how both nations shape their final preparations ahead of a pivotal year in international football.
