Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle is poised to announce his final 23-man squad this week ahead of Nigeria’s crucial 2026 World Cup qualifying fixtures against Rwanda and Zimbabwe later this month.
The Malian tactician had released an expanded provisional squad of 39 players last week, featuring an intriguing blend of experienced campaigners and exciting young talents. This move signals Chelle’s intention to revitalise a team that has struggled for form and consistency in recent outings.
Veteran captain Ahmed Musa, the most-capped player in Nigerian football history, has been welcomed back into the fold. His leadership qualities could prove invaluable as the team navigates through this challenging period.
First-time call-ups for in-form striker Tolu Arokodare and promising midfielder Chrisantus Uche have also generated excitement. Both players have been making waves in European football this season.
Other notable inclusions are Fulham’s Alex Iwobi, Bayer Leverkusen forward Victor Boniface, and Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen. These players will be expected to play pivotal roles in the upcoming fixtures.
The Super Eagles’ current predicament stems from a disastrous start to their qualification campaign. The team has drawn against Lesotho, Zimbabwe, and South Africa while suffering a shocking defeat to Benin Republic, leaving them fifth in Group C with just three points.
This situation bears an uncomfortable resemblance to their 2022 World Cup qualification campaign, where they lost their ticket to Ghana on away goals after a 1-1 aggregate draw in the final playoff round.
The upcoming fixtures against Rwanda in Kigali on March 21 and Zimbabwe at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo on March 25 have therefore taken on must-win status. Anything less than six points will likely severely damage Nigeria’s chances of qualifying for the tournament.
Rwanda currently leads Group C, making the away fixture in Kigali particularly challenging and potentially decisive for Nigeria’s qualification hopes.
As the countdown to the crucial double-header continues, all eyes will be on Chelle’s final selection. This will provide the first real insight into his tactical philosophy and approach to managing one of Africa’s footballing powerhouses.
The team is set to resume camp in Kigali on Sunday, ahead of the encounters. Chelle’s squad announcement is expected this week, after the end of the Champions League last-16 games on Wednesday.
With the stakes high and the pressure mounting, Chelle and his team will be under intense scrutiny. The Nigerian football community will be watching with bated breath as the Super Eagles embark on their quest to revive their World Cup qualification hopes.