The Nigerian national football team, the Super Eagles, have intensified preparations for their crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff clash against Gabon, with 18 players already in camp at Rabat, Morocco.
The squad opened camp on Sunday, and training sessions began in earnest on Monday under the guidance of head coach Eric Chelle. The atmosphere in camp has been described as highly focused and energetic, as the players aim to secure a vital victory in Thursday’s decisive encounter.
Leading the squad is captain William Troost-Ekong, who returned to the national setup after recovering from injury. He was joined by key players including Wilfred Ndidi, Calvin Bassey, Alex Iwobi, Samuel Chukwueze, and Moses Simon, all of whom participated in the first full training session.
Goalkeepers Stanley Nwabali and Amas Obasogie were also present as the team worked on tactical drills, pressing structures, and set-piece routines. Other notable names in camp include Tolu Arokodare, Olakunle Olusegun, Benjamin Fredrick, Semi Ajayi, Chidera Ejuke, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Raphael Onyedika, Akor Adams, and Ademola Lookman.
According to team officials, three more players are expected to arrive before the final training sessions on Wednesday evening, ahead of the match against Gabon. The Super Eagles’ technical team has emphasized physical conditioning and strategic coordination, with particular focus on attack transitions and defensive stability.
Nigeria, who are looking to secure a return to the FIFA World Cup after missing out in 2022, are banking on a blend of experience and youthful energy in this campaign. Head coach Chelle expressed confidence in the players’ readiness, noting that the team’s spirit and determination were “exceptional from the first day of camp.”
“The boys are fully focused and understand what is at stake. We are preparing meticulously to ensure we represent Nigeria with pride and purpose,” Chelle said after Monday’s session.
The Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) also confirmed that morale in the camp is high, with no major injury concerns reported. Fans are hopeful that the Super Eagles will put on a strong performance to edge past Gabon and take a decisive step toward qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
As anticipation builds across Nigeria, all eyes are now on Rabat, where the Super Eagles will look to showcase their trademark resilience and quality when they take on Gabon in Thursday’s much-anticipated playoff clash.
