The Super Eagles of Nigeria are set to face Venezuela in an international friendly at the Shell Energy Stadium in Houston, Texas, on Friday, November 14, 2025, according to an announcement by MLS side Houston Dynamo.
While the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) is yet to confirm the fixture, it would represent Nigeria’s first return to Houston since their memorable 2-2 draw against Mexico on May 31, 2013, shortly after lifting the Africa Cup of Nations title. If finalized, this will also be the team’s debut appearance at the Shell Energy Stadium.
NFF Awaits Confirmation
Despite the announcement in the United States, NFF Director of Media and Communications, Ademola Olajire, told reporters he had not yet received confirmation from official channels.
💬 “I am not aware of this yet. Will let you know once I have confirmation,” Olajire stated.
The development means Nigerian fans may have to wait a little longer before an official green light from the federation.
A Test amid World Cup Qualification Uncertainty
The friendly comes at a pivotal moment for Nigeria. The Super Eagles currently sit third in Group C of the FIFA World Cup qualifiers after defeating Rwanda 1-0 on September 6 and holding South Africa to a 1-1 draw on September 9.
With two crucial qualifiers left to play in October, Nigeria’s hopes of claiming one of Africa’s nine automatic tickets to the 2026 FIFA World Cup remain in jeopardy. The clash with Venezuela would therefore serve as both a morale booster and a tactical experiment for Eric Chelle’s men.
Venezuela Seeking Redemption
For Venezuela, the fixture offers an opportunity to reset after a disappointing close to their World Cup qualification campaign. La Vinotinto suffered heavy defeats to Argentina (3-0) and Colombia (6-3) earlier this year, but will aim to bounce back on American soil.
The South Americans are no strangers to Houston, having last played there on March 24, 2024, when they were held to a goalless draw by Guatemala.
Historical Rivalry
This will not be the first time Nigeria and Venezuela meet in the United States. On November 14, 2012, in Miami, the Super Eagles ran out 3-1 winners thanks to goals from Brown Ideye, Nosa Igiebor, and Ogenyi Onazi.
Tickets for the highly anticipated encounter will go on pre-sale to Houston Dynamo and Houston Dash season ticket holders on Wednesday, September 10, before general sales open the following day via SeatGeek.
