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.