Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has finalized his 23-man squad for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe. This decisive move comes after initially announcing a 39-man provisional list, which has now been streamlined to focus on the team's strategic needs.

Notable Inclusions:

• Ahmed Musa: The experienced forward and team captain returns to the squad for the first time since February 2024, bringing leadership and depth to the attacking lineup.

   

• Zaidu Sanusi: After a prolonged injury absence, the FC Porto defender is back, expected to bolster the team's defensive strength.

   

Key Matches Ahead:

• Rwanda vs. Nigeria: March 21, 2025, in Kigali.

• Nigeria vs. Zimbabwe: March 25, 2025, at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo.

These fixtures are critical as Nigeria aims to improve its standing in Group C, where they currently sit fifth with three points from four matches.

Complete 23-Man Squad:

Goalkeepers:

• Stanley Nwabali (Chippa United, South Africa)

• Maduka Okoye (Udinese, Italy)

• Adebayo Adeleye (Enosis Neon Paralimni, Cyprus)

Defenders:

• William Troost-Ekong (Al Khaleej, Saudi Arabia)

• Bright Osayi-Samuel (Fenerbahçe, Turkey)

• Calvin Bassey (Fulham, England)

• Ola Aina (Nottingham Forest, England)

• Zaidu Sanusi (FC Porto, Portugal)

• Gabriel Osho (AJ Auxerre, France)

Midfielders:

• Alex Iwobi (Everton, England)

• Wilfred Ndidi (Leicester City, England)

• Samuel Chukwueze (AC Milan, Italy)

• Joe Aribo (Southampton, England)

• Frank Onyeka (Brentford, England)

Forwards:

• Ahmed Musa (Kano Pillars, Nigeria)

• Victor Osimhen (Napoli, Italy)

• Ademola Lookman (Atalanta, Italy)

• Moses Simon (Nantes, France)

• Kelechi Iheanacho (Leicester City, England)

• Cyriel Dessers (Rangers, Scotland)

• Sadiq Umar (Real Sociedad, Spain)

• Chidera Ejuke (Sevilla, Spain)

• Paul Onuachu (Southampton, England)

This selection reflects Chelle's strategic approach, blending seasoned veterans with emerging talents to strengthen Nigeria's bid for World Cup qualification.