The Super Eagles have unveiled their 23-man squad for this month’s decisive FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Benin and Lesotho, signalling a blend of experience and fresh talent as Nigeria pushes to stay on course for the 2026 tournament.
Head coach Eric Chelle has recalled Semi Ajayi, whose return shores up a backline hit by Ola Aina’s injury in the recent 1-1 draw against South Africa.
Ajayi returns to bolster defence, Adams finally gets his chance
Meanwhile, long-awaited debutant Akor Adams headlines the attacking reshuffle, bringing fresh excitement to the team’s frontline.
Ajayi’s inclusion brings stability and experience to a defence that will also feature William Troost-Ekong, Calvin Bassey, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Bruno Onyemaechi, Benjamin Fredrick, and Felix Agu.
This combination offers both defensive steel and youthful energy as Nigeria prepares for two vital fixtures.
In midfield, the reliable trio of Alex Iwobi, Wilfred Ndidi, and Frank Onyeka will be joined by Alhassan Yusuf, the New England Revolution midfielder making a timely return to the fold.
The attack promises to be Nigeria’s sharpest weapon yet. Victor Osimhen leads a star-studded line that includes Ademola Lookman, Moses Simon, Samuel Chukwueze, and Cyriel Dessers, who retains his spot despite scrutiny from his last performance.
Adding depth, Terem Moffi returns to the squad, while the long-anticipated inclusion of Akor Adams finally materialises, alongside newcomer Ola Olusegun, injecting fresh competition into the attacking ranks.
Nigeria’s road to redemption hinges on maximum points
With Nigeria’s World Cup hopes hanging in the balance, the upcoming fixtures against Benin and Lesotho have become must-win encounters.
Sitting behind early leaders in the qualification standings, the Super Eagles cannot afford any slip-ups if they are to keep their 2026 ambitions alive.
The return of seasoned campaigners like Ajayi, coupled with the promise of Adams and the consistent form of Osimhen, provides a balanced mix that could define the team’s trajectory.
Full 23-man Super Eagles squad
Goalkeepers: Stanley Nwabali, Amas Obasogie, Adebayo Adeleye
Defenders: Felix Agu, Bruno Onyemaechi, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Benjamin Fredrick, Calvin Bassey, William Troost-Ekong, Semi Ajayi
Midfielders: Alex Iwobi, Wilfred Ndidi, Frank Onyeka, Alhassan Yusuf
Forwards: Moses Simon, Ademola Lookman, Tolu Arokodare, Victor Osimhen, Terem Moffi, Cyriel Dessers, Samuel Chukwueze, Akor Adams, Ola Olusegun
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