WATCH THE VIDEO HERE Eric Chelle made his first major statement as Nigeria coach on Monday when he unveiled a 39-man squad for the Super Eagles’ 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe in March, Footynaija.com reports. The list featured the crème de la crème of Nigerian football — a blend of established stars, home-based talents, debutants, returning faces, and players still battling for form or fitness. However, even with the wide net Chelle cast, the former Lens defender still left out several notable names who could feel hard done by their omission. Here are ten key players missing from Chelle’s first squad — and what they need to do to force their way into the coach’s plans. 1. Leon Balogun A pillar in Nigeria’s defence for years, Leon Balogun played a crucial role at the 2018 World Cup and the 2019 AFCON where the Super Eagles won bronze. Now 36, the veteran defender is in the twilight of his career but remains a reliable option at Glasgow Rangers. Balogun recently made public his desire to continue representing Nigeria, but Chelle has opted for a younger defensive core, leaving the door seemingly closed on one of the country’s most experienced campaigners. 2. Chuba Akpom Fresh from a stellar season with Middlesbrough, Chuba Akpom made a January move from Ajax to Lille, where he is gradually finding his feet. Despite his pedigree, the 28-year-old forward was overlooked in favour of more familiar names like Kelechi Iheanacho and fresh faces like Tolu Arokodare. However, with Chelle showing a willingness to give opportunities to newcomers, Akpom could yet get his chance in the near future. 3. Francis Uzoho Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper at the 2018 World Cup, Francis Uzoho has endured a difficult spell at Omonia Nicosia, spending more time on the bench than on the pitch. Chelle’s decision to leave out Uzoho — who has been under fire for high-profile errors — is no shock. A move away from Cyprus could be the first step to reviving his international career. 4. Josh Maja After rediscovering his scoring touch at West Bromwich Albion, Josh Maja seemed primed for a Super Eagles recall — six years after his debut against Ukraine. However, an untimely injury has ruled him out of contention for the upcoming qualifiers, delaying his long-awaited return to the national team fold. 5. Kevin Akpoguma With the Super Eagles’ defensive frailties under the spotlight, Chelle’s decision to leave out Kevin Akpoguma raised eyebrows. The Hoffenheim defender’s versatility — capable of playing at right-back, centre-back, or wing-back — could have been an asset, but the coach has opted to explore other options. 6. Olisa Ndah A standout product of the NPFL, Olisa Ndah has become one of the best defenders in South Africa with Orlando Pirates. Tall, composed, and dominant in the air, Ndah offers qualities the Super Eagles defence currently lacks. However, injury woes have curtailed his progress — and his hopes of a Chelle call-up. 7. Arthur Okonkwo A former England youth international who recently pledged allegiance to Nigeria, Arthur Okonkwo has been quietly making waves at Wrexham. At 23, the Arsenal academy graduate boasts experience from loan spells at Crewe Alexandra and Sturm Graz, making him a long-term option in goal. But for now, he remains on the outside looking in. 8. Ibrahim Olawoyin One of the best performers in Turkey’s top tier with Caykur Rizespor, Ibrahim Olawoyin was handed his Super Eagles debut by George Finidi earlier last year. With Raphael Onyedika and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru struggling with injuries, Olawoyin might have expected a recall — but Chelle has instead turned to 20-year-old Anthony Dennis of Goztepe. 9. Kenneth Omeruo A veteran of Nigeria’s 2013 AFCON-winning squad, Kenneth Omeruo has been a constant presence in the national team set-up for over a decade. However, the 31-year-old is currently without a club after leaving Kasimpasa in January — a key factor in Chelle’s decision to overlook him. 10. Semi Ajayi A cornerstone of Nigeria’s defence at AFCON 2023, Semi Ajayi would have been one of the first names on Chelle’s squad list if not for injury. The West Brom defender is set to miss most of the season, but once fit, he is likely to walk straight back into the Super Eagles fold. 
No Balogun, no Akpom: Top 10 stars left out of Eric Chelle’s first Super Eagles squad for Rwanda, Zimbabwe
