The Super Eagles of Nigeria have commenced their preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match against Rwanda, with an intensive training session held on Tuesday in Kigali.
The session, which took place at one of the practice pitches in the Rwandan capital, marked the first official training under the guidance of newly appointed head coach Eric Chelle, who took over in January.
A total of 22 players from the 23-man squad reported for the session, with midfielder Alhassan Yusuf being the only absentee. He is expected to join the camp by Wednesday morning.
Super Eagles Seek Redemption After Disappointing Start
Nigeria has endured a difficult qualifying campaign so far, failing to secure a single victory in four matches. The Super Eagles have managed just three draws and one loss, leaving them in fifth place in Group C.
This precarious position means that any further slip-ups could significantly dent their hopes of securing a spot in the 2026 World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Despite their underwhelming performances so far, the squad is brimming with talent. Star forward Victor Osimhen, Atalanta’s in-form winger Ademola Lookman, and Bayer Leverkusen’s dynamic striker Victor Boniface lead a formidable attacking lineup.
Eric Chelle’s First Task as Head Coach
The upcoming match against Rwanda will serve as a significant test for Eric Chelle, who has been tasked with reviving Nigeria’s World Cup hopes. The Malian-born tactician replaced Jose Peseiro earlier this year and has been given the responsibility of turning around the team’s fortunes.
Chelle expressed confidence in his players after the first training session and emphasized the importance of a winning mentality.
“We know the stakes, and we are fully prepared to give our best. The players have shown great commitment, and we are working towards getting the desired results,” Chelle told reporters in Kigali.
Nigeria’s Tough Road Ahead
Following their clash with Rwanda on Friday, the Super Eagles will return home to face Zimbabwe at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo on March 25. These two matches will be crucial in determining Nigeria’s qualification prospects, as they must secure maximum points to stay in contention.
Group C remains highly competitive, and with only the top team securing an automatic spot in the World Cup, the Super Eagles must deliver flawless performances in their remaining fixtures.
Osimhen and Lookman Key to Nigeria’s Hopes
All eyes will be on Napoli’s prolific striker Victor Osimhen, who has consistently been a game-changer for the Super Eagles.
Meanwhile, Ademola Lookman’s impressive form in Serie A has also bolstered Nigeria’s attacking strength. If both players can replicate their club performances on the international stage, Nigeria stands a strong chance of turning their campaign around.
As the countdown begins to Friday’s crucial encounter, Nigerian fans will be hoping for a revival of their team’s World Cup ambitions under the new leadership of Eric Chelle.
