Isaac James receives first Super Eagles call-up for AFCON qualifiers

Defender Isaac James has received his first call-up to the Nigerian national team, the Super Eagles, for the upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers. The 22-year-old, who currently plays for Alverca in the Portuguese Primeira Liga, expressed deep emotion regarding the selection, stating he broke down in tears upon receiving the news.

James is one of three new players invited to the squad by coach Éric Chelle as the team prepares for critical qualifying fixtures against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau. His inclusion follows a strong period of form in Portugal, where he has demonstrated versatility by playing as a left midfielder, defensive midfielder, and centre-back. His selection is seen as a strategic move to refresh the squad and provide depth, particularly following an injury to Zaidu Sanusi.