Nigeria’s hopes of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup received a major boost as Head Coach Eric Sekou Chelle announced a provisional list of 31 players for next month’s crucial qualifying fixtures against Rwanda and South Africa.
The announcement, made on Friday, confirmed the inclusion of captain William Troost-Ekong, first-choice goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, and key players such as Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, Simon Moses, Wilfred Ndidi, and Alex Iwobi. These stars headline the squad expected to deliver results in the high-stakes encounters scheduled for early September.
The Super Eagles will first take on Rwanda at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo on Saturday, 6th September in a Matchday 7 clash before flying to Bloemfontein to face South Africa on Tuesday, 9th September in what is already being billed as a potentially explosive contest.
With Nigeria sitting fourth in Group C, the pressure is on Chelle’s men to secure maximum points in both fixtures to revive their qualification hopes.
Blend of Experience and Youth
The squad reflects a careful balance of established internationals and emerging talents. Defensively, Chelle has opted for trusted names including Olaoluwa Aina, Calvin Bassey, and Bright Osayi-Samuel, alongside young defenders Benjamin Fredericks, Felix Agu, and Igoh Ogbu, who are being given opportunities to impress at the highest level.
In midfield, stalwarts Ndidi and Iwobi are joined by Frank Onyeka, Raphael Onyedika, and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, with newcomer Christantus Uche earning his spot after strong performances at club level.
The forward line is brimming with firepower. Victor Osimhen, Lookman, Chukwueze, Boniface, and Moffi are expected to provide the goals, while Sadiq Umar, Nathan Tella, Cyriel Dessers, Adams Akor, and Tolu Arokodare add depth and variety in attack.
Goalkeeping Competition
First-choice goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, who impressed at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, leads the pack of four goalkeepers. He is joined by Adeleye Adebayo, Amas Obasogie, and promising youngster Ebenezer Harcourt, whose inclusion has been described as a move to prepare the next generation.
Strategic Preparations
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) confirmed that the team’s camp will officially open in Uyo on Monday, 1st September, giving Chelle and his coaching staff ample time to fine-tune tactics and assess player fitness levels ahead of the two matches.
The Super Eagles, three-time African champions, are under pressure after a mixed start to the qualifiers, with dropped points already threatening their chances of topping the group. Victories against Rwanda and South Africa will be crucial in restoring momentum.
Rising Expectations
Fans across Nigeria have expressed optimism about the blend of youth and experience in the squad. With Osimhen and Lookman in red-hot club form and Ekong providing leadership at the back, many believe the Super Eagles are capable of producing strong performances.
The coming weeks promise high drama as Nigeria aims to get its World Cup qualifying campaign back on track. For Chelle, the challenge is clear: deliver results and reignite the Super Eagles’ dream of a return to the biggest stage in world football.