According to a report by OwnGoalNigeria on Monday, November 9, 2026, Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle was persuaded to include Mubarak Suleiman in Nigeria’s squad for the upcoming matches against Tanzania following the midfielder’s impressive performances for Slavia Prague.

Suleiman’s inclusion came as a surprise, considering that the 19-year-old was initially expected to feature for Nigeria’s U-23 team, the Olympic Eagles, in their upcoming qualifying fixtures against the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The youngster was originally invited to the U-23 squad, while his Slavia Prague teammate, David Moses, was provisionally considered for the senior national team.

However, Chelle reportedly reconsidered his plans after receiving encouraging feedback from his scouting network about Suleiman’s recent performances.

The report disclosed that the midfielder recorded five goal contributions in his last three matches, a run of form that reportedly convinced the Super Eagles technical crew to promote him to the senior squad.

His versatility also played an important role in the decision, as he can operate on either wing and in central midfield. His attacking movements and ability to contribute goals further strengthened his chances of securing a place in the team.

Suleiman’s emergence also influenced Nigeria’s plans to replace Samuel Chukwueze, who is unavailable for the November international window.

Philip Otele of FC Basel was initially considered the leading candidate to fill the winger’s position. However, Suleiman’s impressive displays reportedly changed the situation, earning him a place in Chelle’s final selection.

The youngster is among the notable inclusions in Nigeria’s 24-man squad for the double-header against Tanzania, alongside Marseille midfielder Tochukwu Nnadi and returning midfielder Samson Tijani.

Nigeria will host Tanzania at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on November 13 before travelling for the return fixture on November 17.

The Super Eagles will be looking to secure positive results in both encounters to strengthen their chances of qualifying for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations after collecting three points from their opening two matches.