Head Coach Eric Chelle has announced a 23-man Super Eagles squad, which includes a debut call-up for Sevilla striker Akor Adams, as Nigeria prepares for two decisive 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers in October.
The squad announcement comes at a critical time for Nigeria’s qualification hopes, which were recently revived by a FIFA sanction against rivals South Africa.
The Squad Highlights
The 23-man list features a mix of experienced stars and returning players:
- Debut Call-Up: Sevilla striker Akor Adams has earned his first invitation to the senior national team.
- Returning Stars: Semi Ajayi, Terem Moffi, Alhassan Yusuf, and Olakunle Olusegun all make a return to the squad.
- Goalkeeping: Stanley Nwabali maintains his position as first-choice, supported by Amas Obasogie and Adebayo Adeleye.
- Defence: The backline includes veterans like Captain William Troost-Ekong, alongside Calvin Bassey and Bright Osayi.
- Midfield: The midfield is anchored by Alex Iwobi, Wilfred Ndidi, and Frank Onyeka.
- Attack: The forward line is led by Victor Osimhen, supported by Ademola Lookman, Moses Simon, Samuel Chukwueze, and Cyriel Dessers.
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Qualification Hopes Revived by FIFA Ruling
Nigeria’s campaign in Group C of the African qualifiers was considered to be slipping after five draws in eight matches. However, the situation was dramatically altered by a recent disciplinary ruling from FIFA.
The ruling overturned South Africa’s 2-0 victory against Lesotho in March, instead awarding a 3-0 victory to Lesotho and stripping Bafana Bafana of three crucial points.
This ruling has reshaped the group standings:
- Top Spot: Benin and South Africa are now tied on 14 points.
- Nigeria’s Position: Nigeria sits just behind on 11 points, tied with Rwanda.
- Lesotho: Lesotho has been lifted to nine points.
The Road Ahead
The Super Eagles must secure maximum points in their upcoming two matches to secure an automatic qualification spot for the 2026 finals in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
- Match 1: Nigeria faces Lesotho in Polokwane on October 10. A win would move them level on points with the group leaders.
- Match 2: The final home match is against Benin in Uyo four days later, on October 14.
The team’s current goal difference of plus two leaves them at a disadvantage, making emphatic victories crucial. Should the Super Eagles fail to secure the top spot, they may still qualify as one of the four best runners-up across Africa, where goal difference will be the deciding factor.
