Eric Chelle names provisional Super Eagles squad ahead of crucial qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has announced a 39-man provisional squad for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe, Footynaija.com reports.

With the aim of getting Nigeria’s qualification campaign back on track following a disappointing start that has seen them fail to record a single victory, Chelle has made his maiden squad selection at the helm of affairs.

Squad Breakdown

Goalkeepers:

Stanley Nwabali

Maduka Okoye

Amas Obasogie

Adeleye Adebayo

Kayode Bankole

Defenders:

William Troost-Ekong

Calvin Bassey

Olaoluwa Aina

Bruno Onyemaechi

 Bright Osayi-Samuel

Zaidu Sanusi

 Gabriel Osho

Igoh Ogbu

Jordan Torunarigha

Ifeanyi Onyebuchi

Midfielders:

Wilfred Ndidi

Raphael Onyedika

Frank Onyeka

Alex Iwobi

Fisayo Dele-Bashiru

Anthony Dennis

Christantus Uche

Papa Daniel Mustapha

Joseph Ayodele Aribo

Alhassan Yusuf Abdullahi

Forwards:

Victor Osimhen

Victor Boniface

Ademola Lookman

Moses Simon

 Samuel Chukwueze

Kelechi Iheanacho

Sadiq Umar

Nathan Tella

Cyriel Dessers

Tolu Arokodare

Chidera Ejuke

Paul Onuachu

Ahmed Musa

Akor Adams

Notable Inclusions & Omissions

One of the biggest talking points is the return of seasoned veteran Ahmed Musa, who has been impressive for Kano Pillars in the Nigeria Professional Football League. However, the absence of Semi Ajayi due to injury is a major blow.

With Nigeria set to face Rwanda on March 19 and Zimbabwe on March 22, Chelle’s squad will set out to revive the African giants’ qualification hopes. The Super Eagles will need to secure maximum points in both fixtures to achieve this goal.