Nigeria to face Venezuela and Colombia in U.S. friendlies

Nigeria will test itself against two formidable South American opponents in the United States this November as the Super Eagles intensify preparations for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco and the 2026 World Cup play-offs.

The Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) confirmed that the three-time African champions will meet Venezuela on 14 November in Houston, followed by a clash with Colombia on 18 November in New York.

Both fixtures are scheduled for 8:00 p.m. local time and will be staged in prime time to maximise exposure to fans in North America.

According to the NFF, the encounters are designed to be far more than routine warm-ups.

These matches are not just friendlies, they must help us reach a new level, the federation stated, highlighting its intention to measure the team against opponents known for physicality, speed and tactical discipline.

The choice of the United States as host venue reflects Nigeria’s growing profile across the Atlantic.

The Super Eagles have drawn large crowds in previous outings in North America, including high-profile fixtures against Mexico and Ecuador in 2022.

By returning to Houston and New York — cities with significant Nigerian and African diaspora communities — the NFF hopes to combine elite preparation with enhanced global visibility.

Both Venezuela and Colombia are expected to present stern tests. Venezuela, currently experiencing a resurgence in South American football, will offer a physical challenge and compact defensive structure.

Colombia, with its blend of technical flair and intensity, provides a different but equally demanding style, mirroring what Nigeria could face in Morocco and beyond.

For head coach José Peseiro and his players, the double-header is an opportunity to fine-tune tactics, assess squad depth and build cohesion ahead of a pivotal year.

With the AFCON  title at stake and World Cup qualification on the line, the Super Eagles will be under pressure to translate the lessons of these matches into competitive success.

The NFF’s approach underlines a determination to avoid complacency and ensure the team is fully battle-hardened.

By confronting two respected South American sides on neutral ground, Nigeria aims to develop the resilience and adaptability required to compete at the highest level — and to remind fans at home and abroad of its ambitions on the global stage.