Nigeria’s newly appointed head coach, Eric Chelle, announced a 39-player provisional squad on March 4, 2025, for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe. The list, Chelle’s first major selection since taking charge in January 2024, combines established stars with eight uncapped players.
The squad retains iconic figures like captain Ahmed Musa (Kano Pillars) and vice-captain William Troost-Ekong (PAOK), alongside African Footballer of the Year Ademola Lookman (Atalanta) and Napoli loanee Victor Osimhen (Galatasaray). Midfield stability rests on Premier League regulars Wilfred Ndidi (Leicester City) and Alex Iwobi (Fulham), while in-form forwards Victor Boniface (Bayer Leverkusen) and Cyriel Dessers (Rangers) bolster the attack.
Eight debutants earned call-ups, including Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) standouts Kayode Bankole (Remo Stars goalkeeper) and Ifeanyi Onyebuchi (Enugu Rangers defender). Europe-based newcomers like Tolu Arokodare (Genk striker) and Anthony Dennis (Goztepe midfielder) were rewarded for standout club performances.
Chelle’s omission of an unnamed Premier League player drew sharp criticism from former Super Eagles defender Elijah Odetokun, who called the decision “inexplicable.” Meanwhile, Ahmed Musa’s inclusion—despite limited club play since 2023—has polarized fans, though his leadership role is seen as critical for mentoring younger players.
Nigeria languishes in 5th place in Group C with just three points from four matches, trailing group leaders Rwanda, South Africa, Benin Republic, and Lesotho. The Super Eagles face Rwanda in Kigali on March 21 and host Zimbabwe in Uyo on March 25, needing decisive victories to reignite their World Cup hopes.
Roster for #2026WCQ vs Rwanda and Zimbabwe #SoarSuperEaglespic.twitter.com/rljpOZkyyd
— 🇳🇬 Super Eagles (@NGSuperEagles) March 4, 2025
Chelle will trim the squad to 23 players by March 18, with training commencing in Uyo ahead of the Rwanda clash. Analysts warn that tactical cohesion and squad morale will be pivotal against a Rwandan side unbeaten in qualifying and a Zimbabwean team desperate for their first win.
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