Super Eagles: Has Bewene done enough to earn a place in Chelle’s AFCON qualifiers team?

Super Eagles and Banik Ostrava right-back Abdullahi Bewene is eyeing more appearances for the Nigerian National team after earning his first caps against Portugal and Poland, Afrik Foot reports.

The former Havirov defender was called up to the Super Eagles camp as a late replacement for Femi Azeez after Millwall failed to sanction the winger’s inclusion in the friendly games after the 2026 Unity Cup tournament in London.

Bewene was relatively unknown by many, but has now made a huge impression on several Nigerian fans with his displays in just under 120 minutes.

Abdullahi Bewene of Nigeria and Nicola Zalewski of Poland in action. Copyright: ImagoxMikolajxBarbanellx

Rather than looking overwhelmed by the occasion, Bewene wasn’t shy of producing several attacking runs in the 2-2 draw against Poland. While there were signs that he’s yet to gel with the team, there were several encouraging signs as well as he got stuck in.

He then added to his international experience with a late appearance in Nigeria’s narrow 2-1 defeat to Portugal. Bewene came on for Genk’s Christian Akpan, and the difference was immediately evident on the pitch, as he kept the right-hand side locked.

Now, with the AFCON qualifiers approaching in September, the question is whether Bewene has done enough to remain part of Chelle’s plans.

Super Eagles. Copyright: ImagoxGrzegorzxWajdax

Abdullahi Bewene delighted with Super Eagles call-up

The 21-year-old defender admitted that his first taste of international football exceeded all expectations and revealed how much he learned from sharing a dressing room with some of Nigeria’s most experienced players.

“I am very excited to have been in camp with these great players, spending time with them and learning from them,” Bewene told Footy-Africa.

“When you see someone like Alex Iwobi, who has over 100 caps for Nigeria, and he treats you as one of the lads, it only encourages you to do better.

“Others like Calvin Bassey, Semi Ajayi and Moses Simon are wonderful leaders in the team. I appreciate their kind words and encouragement throughout my time in camp.”

🚨🇳🇬 What a debut from Abdullahi Bewene, he was pretty good yesterday against Poland. 🔥 pic.twitter.com/TCepFABkit

— GNB OFFICIAL (@GHNaijaBallers) June 4, 2026

Reflecting on his debut against Poland, the versatile full-back was pleased with his performance but acknowledged there is still room for improvement.

“My debut against Poland was okay. I think I did well, even though there are a few things I can improve on.

“I am always working to improve myself, both on and off the pitch, so that I can continue to earn invitations to represent my country.”

Bewene also revealed that representing Nigeria had always been one of his biggest ambitions.

“It has always been my dream to play for Nigeria.

“To be honest, I knew the opportunity would come if I kept working hard, but I did not expect it to come this soon. However, I am here now, and I am grateful to the coach and all the backroom staff for believing in me.

“I hope I continue to get opportunities like this to help my country. It is truly a dream come true for me.”

Super Eagles debutant Abdullahi Bewene, vs Poland. Copyright: xAndrzejxIwanczukx IMAGO

Can Bewene earn a place in Chelle’s AFCON qualifiers squad?

While a few good performances are rarely enough to secure a long-term international future, Bewene did exactly what Eric Chelle would have wanted from a debutant: he looked comfortable.

Against Poland, the young defender showed composure in possession, positional discipline and a willingness to consistently progress the ball when he had the opportunity, but above all, he never looked out of place.

His performance becomes even more impressive when viewed in context. Bewene joined the squad late, had limited time to build chemistry with his teammates, and was immediately tasked with facing an experienced Polish side on their home turf.

The Portugal cameo may have been brief, but it further demonstrated Chelle’s trust in the youngster.

Coach Eric Chelle of Nigeria is seen during the Friendly Match 2026 football match against Poland. Copyright: ImagoxGrzegorzxWajdax

Competition for places remains fierce. Ola Aina, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Benjamin Frederick, and Ryan Alebiosu all remain ahead of him in the pecking order.

However, international football is often about timing, and Bewene appears to have arrived at the right moment.

Nigeria’s recent friendlies have shown that Chelle is eager to build squad depth rather than rely solely on established names. Players like Emmanuel Fernandez, Femi Azeez and Arthur Okonkwo have all used recent opportunities to strengthen their standing within the squad, and Bewene may have done the same.

Nigeria and Banik Ostrava star Abdullahi Bewene. Photo by IMAGO

The upcoming AFCON qualifiers will require a balanced squad capable of handling injuries, suspensions and fixture congestion. Based on what he showed against Poland and Portugal, the 21-year-old has made a compelling case to be included.