Nigeria have announced a 23-man squad for their pivotal 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Lesotho and Benin, with head coach Eric Chelle handing a first-ever call-up to Sevilla striker Akor Adams.
Captain William Troost-Ekong leads the squad, while Semi Ajayi, Terem Moffi, Alhassan Yusuf, and Olakunle Olusegun return to the team after spells away from international duty.
Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali retains his place as the number one choice, supported by Amas Obasogie and Adebayo Adeleye. Defenders named include Felix Agu, Bruno Onyemaechi, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Benjamin Fredrick, and Calvin Bassey.
In midfield, Alex Iwobi, Wilfred Ndidi, Frank Onyeka, and Alhassan Yusuf provide a mix of experience and energy.
Up front, Victor Osimhen leads a strong attack that features Ademola Lookman, Moses Simon, Samuel Chukwueze, Terem Moffi, Cyriel Dessers, Tolu Arokodare, the returning Olusegun, and debutant Akor Adams.
The announcement comes at a crucial stage in the African qualifying campaign.
Nigeria’s hopes of reaching the World Cup had appeared slim following five draws in eight games. However, a recent FIFA disciplinary decision has revitalized their campaign. South Africa’s 2–0 win over Lesotho in March was overturned, awarding a 3–0 victory to Lesotho due to an ineligible player—costing South Africa three vital points.
That ruling now leaves Benin and South Africa tied at the top of Group C with 14 points, while Nigeria and Rwanda sit just behind on 11. Lesotho have moved up to nine points, and Zimbabwe, with four points, are already eliminated.
For the Super Eagles, the shift offers a fresh opportunity. A win over Lesotho in Polokwane on October 10 would move them level with the group leaders, setting the stage for a decisive home match against Benin in Uyo on October 14.
Two victories would take Nigeria to 17 points—potentially enough for automatic qualification, depending on South Africa’s results in their final two games.
If not, Nigeria could still qualify as one of Africa’s four best runners-up. However, their current goal difference of +2 puts them at a disadvantage, making emphatic wins critical in their bid to reach the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Post comments (0)