Currently sitting fifth in their qualifying group with three points from four matches, the 2013 African champions are under pressure to secure victories in both games to revive their World Cup campaign.
Final 23-Man Squad Announced
Head coach Eric Chelle unveiled the final 23-man squad for the qualifiers on Tuesday, blending youth and experience. The squad includes three goalkeepers, six defenders, six midfielders, and eight attackers.
Defensive Options
The defensive lineup features three center-backs, one left-back (Bruno Onyemaechi), and two right-backs (Ola Aina and Bright Osayi-Samuel). Calvin Bassey, primarily a center-back, can also provide emergency cover at left-back if needed.
Midfield and Attack
The midfield selection comprises two defensive midfielders (Wilfred Ndidi and Alhassan Yusuf), two central midfielders (Joe Aribo and Papa Daniel Mustapha), and one attacking midfielder (Alex Iwobi).
Among the eight forwards, there are four center-forwards (Victor Osimhen, Umar Sadiq, Tolu Arokodare, and Victor Boniface) and four wingers (Samuel Chukwueze, Moses Simon, Ademola Lookman, and Nathan Tella).
Goalkeeping Choices
All three goalkeepers selected currently play on the African continent: Stanley Nwabali (South Africa), Omas Obasogie (Tanzania), and Kayode Bankole (Nigeria, Remo Stars). Notably, Maduka Okoye, who impressed in Udinese’s Serie A draw against Lazio on Monday night, and Cyprus-based Adebayo Adeleye were omitted from the squad.
NPFL Representation
Remo Stars’ Kayode Bankole and Niger Tornadoes’ midfielder Papa Daniel Mustapha are the only two Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) players in the squad. Their inclusion, alongside Tanzania-based Omas Obasogie—who previously played for Bendel Insurance—represents a calculated gamble by Coach Chelle that could prove pivotal in Nigeria’s quest for a 2026 World Cup ticket.
A Must-Win Campaign
With their World Cup hopes hanging in the balance, the Super Eagles must deliver strong performances in both matches to keep their qualification dreams alive. The blend of experienced stars and emerging talents in the squad offers a glimmer of hope as Nigeria aims to return to the global stage.