The Super Eagles’ preparations for their crucial 2026 World Cup qualifiers are officially underway, with assistant coaches Daniel Ogunmodede and Fidelis Ilechukwu, alongside goalkeeper Kayode Bankole, among the first arrivals in Kigali, Rwanda, Footynaija.com reports.
Ogunmodede left Nigeria before his Remo Stars side strolled to a fine 2-0 victory over Heartland Owerri in Ikenne-Remo on Sunday afternon. Enugu Rangers boss Ilechukwu had masterminded the Coal Miners’ convincing 3-0 win against Kwara United on Saturday before heading to Kigali.
The two coaches’ presence in camp signals the start of a pivotal phase for Nigeria, as head coach Eric Chelle prepares to take charge of his first training sessions with the squad.
Arrivals:
Assistant coaches, Daniel Ogunmodede & Fidelis Ilechukwu with Remo Stars GK, Kayode Bankole. #PoojaInRwanda pic.twitter.com/Gy8wZfZfSm
— POOJA!!! (@PoojaMedia) March 16, 2025
Several Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) officials are already in Kigali to receive players and coaching staff ahead of the full team’s arrival.
With club football on hold, key players are expected to join camp swiftly. Captain William Troost-Ekong, as well as in-form strikers Victor Osimhen and Tolu Arokodare, are anticipated among the early arrivals.
Mood because camp is opening today pic.twitter.com/MA1XLcLU8F
— Super Eagles (@NGSuperEagles) March 16, 2025
The Super Eagles face an uphill task to revive their World Cup qualification hopes, having failed to win any of their first four matches. Sitting four points behind group leaders Rwanda, Benin, and South Africa, Nigeria must secure back-to-back victories to stay in contention.
Their campaign resumes with a must-win clash against Rwanda on March 21 before a home fixture against Zimbabwe at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo on March 25.
Barring any travel delays, the squad is expected to be at full strength by Monday, giving Chelle a vital window to work with his players ahead of these decisive encounters.