Super Eagles Head Coach Unveils 23-Man Provisional Squad for World Cup Qualifiers

The road to the 2026 FIFA World Cup is heating up as Nigeria’s newly appointed Super Eagles head coach, Eric Chelle, has revealed a 23-man provisional squad ahead of crucial qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe in March. The squad, which blends seasoned veterans with promising young talents, is a strategic move in Nigeria’s bid for a spot at football’s most prestigious tournament....CONTINUE READING>>>

According to BusinessDay, Chelle initially submitted a 35-man list to the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), which will be narrowed down to the final 23 players before the decisive matches. The NFF, under the leadership of President Ibrahim Gusau, has emphasized that last-minute changes could be made due to injury concerns and fitness evaluations.

Super Eagles’ Provisional Squad

The squad comprises experienced international players alongside emerging prospects who could make their senior debut.

Experienced Stars

• Ademola Lookman (Atalanta)
• Alex Iwobi (Fulham)
• Wilfred Ndidi (Leicester City)
• Moses Simon (Nantes)
• Samuel Chukwueze (AC Milan)
• Victor Osimhen (Napoli)
• William Troost-Ekong (PAOK)
• Ola Aina (Nottingham Forest)
• Frank Onyeka (Brentford)
• Ahmed Musa (Sivasspor)

These players have extensive international experience, having played pivotal roles for Nigeria, including in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Rising Talents and Debutants

The list also features several young players eager to make their mark on the national team:

• Ethan Nwaneri (17, Arsenal)
• George Ilenikhena (18, Royal Antwerp)
• Victor Udoh (19, Enyimba FC)
• Ahmed Abdullahi (20, Gent)
• Kazeem Olaigbe (22, Cercle Brugge)
• Ebenezer Akinsanmiro (20, Inter Milan)
• Samuel Edozie (21, Southampton)
• Tino Anjorin (23, Chelsea)
• Uche Chrisantus
• Chuba Akpom (Ajax)

These selections highlight Chelle’s strategy of integrating fresh talent with experienced figures, ensuring a dynamic and balanced squad.

Challenges and Expectations

Nigeria faces a tough qualification campaign, making the upcoming fixtures against Rwanda on March 17 and Zimbabwe on March 24 crucial. Coach Chelle will be under pressure to secure maximum points and strengthen the team’s chances of qualification.

Despite the abundance of talent, injuries and fitness concerns remain key factors in determining the final squad. The coaching staff and medical team will conduct final assessments before confirming the list.

Fans’ Reactions and Outlook

Nigerian football fans are eagerly anticipating Chelle’s first major test as head coach. With Victor Osimhen spearheading the attack and a wave of young talent ready to make an impact, expectations are high. Supporters believe the Super Eagles have the potential to qualify for the World Cup, but maintaining consistency will be vital.

As the final squad announcement approaches, all eyes will be on Coach Chelle’s choices. One thing remains clear: Nigerians expect nothing less than a ticket to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.