Super Eagles Coach Announces 23-Man Squad for Crucial World Cup Qualifiers
By DAYO ADESULU
Nigeria has unveiled a 23-man squad for October’s decisive 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, with head coach Eric Chelle handing Sevilla striker Akor Adams a maiden call-up.
The squad, announced on Friday, sees the return of several key players and comes at a time when Nigeria’s qualification hopes have been reignited by a recent FIFA ruling against South Africa.
Key Players and Fresh Faces
Captain William Troost-Ekong headlines the squad, with Semi Ajayi, Terem Moffi, Alhassan Yusuf, and Olakunle Olusegun all making their return to the national setup.
In goal, Stanley Nwabali keeps his place as first-choice goalkeeper, supported by Amas Obasogie and Adebayo Adeleye.
The defensive lineup includes Felix Agu, Bruno Onyemaechi, Bright Osayi, Benjamin Fredrick, and Calvin Bassey.
Nigeria’s midfield will be marshalled by Alex Iwobi, Wilfred Ndidi, Frank Onyeka, and Alhassan Yusuf, offering a balance of experience and energy.
In attack, Victor Osimhen leads a strong frontline that features Ademola Lookman, Moses Simon, Samuel Chukwueze, Terem Moffi, Cyriel Dessers, Tolu Arokodare, the returning Olakunle Olusegun, and debutant Akor Adams.
Group C Qualification Picture
Nigeria’s campaign had appeared shaky after recording five draws in eight matches. However, FIFA’s recent disciplinary ruling against South Africa has changed the landscape of Group C.
The sanction overturned South Africa’s 2–0 victory over Lesotho in March, instead awarding a 3–0 win to the Crocodiles. The decision cost Bafana Bafana three vital points, tightening the group standings.
As it stands, Benin and South Africa lead with 14 points each, Nigeria and Rwanda follow with 11, Lesotho now has nine, while Zimbabwe, already eliminated, sits at the bottom with four points.
Super Eagles’ Qualification Path
The new scenario means Nigeria still has its fate partly in its own hands. Victory against Lesotho in Polokwane on October 10 would move the Super Eagles level on points with the group leaders.
Four days later, Nigeria hosts Benin in Uyo in what could be a decisive clash. Two wins from the double-header would lift Nigeria to 17 points — potentially enough to secure automatic qualification depending on South Africa’s results in Durban and Mbombela.
Should Chelle’s men fall short, Nigeria could still qualify as one of the four best runners-up across Africa. However, their current +2 goal difference puts them at a disadvantage compared to Benin and South Africa, making emphatic wins essential to boost their chances.
What’s at Stake
The 2026 FIFA World Cup, set to be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, represents a massive stage for the Super Eagles. With Adams set for his debut, veterans returning, and Osimhen spearheading the attack, Nigeria enters October’s qualifiers with renewed hope of securing its place at the finals.
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