Super Eagles head coach, Eric Chelle, has announced his final 23-man squad for Nigeria’s upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches against Rwanda and Zimbabwe.
The squad, revealed today, marks Chelle’s debut in charge of the three-time African champions as he looks to kick-start Nigeria’s qualification campaign on a strong note.
Chelle initially released a 39-man provisional squad last week but has now trimmed the list down to a final selection featuring three goalkeepers, six defenders, six midfielders, and seven forwards.
The squad is a mix of experienced internationals and fresh faces, reflecting Chelle’s strategy to balance consistency with new energy.
Squad Breakdown
Goalkeepers:
- Amas Obasogie (Bendel Insurance)
- Kayode Bankole (Remo Stars)
- Stanley Nwabali (Chippa United)
Chelle has placed his trust in home-based goalkeepers alongside Chippa United’s Stanley Nwabali, who impressed during the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations.
Defenders:
- Bright Osayi-Samuel (Fenerbahçe)
- Bruno Onyemaechi (Boavista)
- Calvin Bassey (Fulham)
- Ola Aina (Nottingham Forest)
- Igoh Ogbu (Slavia Prague)
- William Troost-Ekong (PAOK)
The defensive lineup boasts a solid mix of experience and versatility. Troost-Ekong, who captained the team at the AFCON, returns to provide leadership, while Ola Aina and Calvin Bassey bring Premier League experience. The inclusion of Igoh Ogbu suggests Chelle is keen on reinforcing the backline with new talent.
Midfielders:
- Alex Iwobi (Fulham)
- Alhassan Yusuf (Antwerp)
- Joe Aribo (Southampton)
- Papa Daniel Mustapha (Slovan Bratislava)
- Raphael Onyedika (Club Brugge)
- Wilfred Ndidi (Leicester City)
Midfield general Wilfred Ndidi returns after missing the latter part of the AFCON due to injury. The versatile Alex Iwobi remains a key playmaker, while Alhassan Yusuf and Raphael Onyedika provide youthful energy. Chelle’s decision to include relatively new names like Papa Daniel Mustapha signals his intent to build depth in midfield.
Forwards:
- Ademola Lookman (Atalanta)
- Moses Simon (Nantes)
- Nathan Tella (Bayer Leverkusen)
- Sadiq Umar (Real Sociedad)
- Samuel Chukwueze (AC Milan)
- Tolu Arokodare (Genk)
- Victor Boniface (Bayer Leverkusen)
- Victor Osimhen (Napoli)
The attack is spearheaded by reigning African Footballer of the Year, Victor Osimhen, who remains Nigeria’s most potent goal threat. His partnership with Victor Boniface could provide the cutting edge needed in the qualifiers. Ademola Lookman and Samuel Chukwueze offer width and creativity, while the inclusion of Tolu Arokodare suggests Chelle is keen on testing fresh attacking options.
Nigeria’s Road to the 2026 World Cup
Nigeria’s campaign begins with a crucial away fixture against Rwanda before hosting Zimbabwe. With only one automatic qualification spot per group, the Super Eagles must secure positive results early in the campaign to avoid unnecessary complications later on.
Chelle’s appointment as head coach came amid high expectations, with Nigerian fans eager to see an improvement from the team’s AFCON performance. The choice of players in this squad highlights his intent to combine established names with emerging talents, aiming for a dynamic and balanced team.
Key Talking Points
- Osimhen’s Leadership Role: As Nigeria’s top scorer, Osimhen is expected to play a crucial role in leading the attack and inspiring the squad.
- New Faces in Defense and Midfield: Igoh Ogbu and Papa Daniel Mustapha represent Chelle’s willingness to explore fresh talent.
- Ndidi’s Return: Having missed the AFCON, Ndidi’s presence in midfield will provide much-needed stability and defensive cover.
- Stanley Nwabali’s Continued Inclusion: After an impressive AFCON showing, Nwabali keeps his place, reinforcing Chelle’s faith in his abilities.
With a strong squad named, all eyes will be on how Chelle sets up his team for these crucial qualifiers. Super Eagles fans will be hoping for an early statement of intent as Nigeria embarks on the journey to secure a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
