Ranking Eric Chelle’s invited strikers – Who is the best and who are the rest?

Eric Chelle has called up eight top strikers for Nigeria’s World Cup qualifiers against Zimbabwe and Rwanda, Footynaija.com reports.

Victor Osimhen, Cyriel Dessers, Paul Onuachu and other attackers have all been in fine form for their clubs, but who stands out as the best option for the Super Eagles?

1. Victor Osimhen

Osimhen remains Nigeria’s biggest weapon in attack. Now playing for Galatasaray on loan, the 26-year-old has twenty two goals and five assists in 28 appearances this season.

His consistency has helped Galatasaray dominate the Turkish Süper Lig, as the team currently sits 4 points ahead on the log.

Osimhen is an all-round player. His pace, pressing, and sharp finishing make him a nightmare for defenders. Whether he is playing as a lone striker or in a front two, Osimhen’s movement and work rate make him a cut above the others.

2. Cyril Dessers

Cyriel Dessers follows Osimhen with an outstanding form at Rangers, scoring 21 goals and six assists in all competitions this season. The 30-year-old thrives in the box, making smart runs and finishing with precision.

His confidence is high, and he could be a key player for Nigeria, especially against teams whose defences require sharp finishing to break down.

3. Tolu Arokodare

Tolu Arokodare has been a surprise package in Belgium, scoring eighteen goals and providing six assists for Genk. His performances have made a strong case for his inclusion in the squad, and he could be a wildcard option for Chelle.

4. Victor Boniface

Victor Boniface, another exciting prospect, has recorded ten goals and one assist for Bayer Leverkusen this season.

His ability to link up play and contribute to his team’s attack has made him a key player in the Bundesliga. With his mix of power and technical ability, he remains an important option for the Super Eagles.

5. Sadiq Umar

Sadiq Umar has four goals and one assist so far this season. His physical presence offers a different attacking dimension and, in a good form, he could be an asset in the qualifiers.

6. Akor Adams

Akor Adams also makes the list with three goals and one assist so far this season. He impressed in France with his ability to both score and create chances before making the switch to Sevilla in January. His invitation to the national team is well deserved.

7. Kelechi Iheanacho

Kelechi Iheanacho has had a mixed season, registering three goals in a total of 15 appearances. His experience in the national team setup keeps him in contention, though his inconsistent club form means he may not be a guaranteed starter under Chelle.

8. Paul Onuachu

If Chelle wants to go direct, Onuachu is the man for the job. At six feet seven inches, the Southampton front man brings in a different kind of threat.

The 30-year-old has 2 goals and one assist in 19 matches for the Saints this season. His aerial presence makes him a nightmare for defenders, particularly in games where physical presence is needed up front.

The Super Eagles boss has a good mix of pace, power, and finishing in attack. How he sets up will depend on the opposition. Osimhenʼs all-around ability makes him Nigeria’s top striker, but Eric Chelle also has Dessers’ red-hot form, Onuachu’s aerial dominance, and a host of other solid options to explore in the upcoming games.