As the countdown to Nigeria’s crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers begins, all eyes are on Eric Chelle, the man tasked with leading the Super Eagles to the global stage.
The Former Mali coach appointed in January marked a historic moment, as he became the first non-Nigerian African to take charge of the national team. Now, with his first provisional squad list unveiled, the former Mali international has made his intentions clear: continuity, experience, and a touch of fresh talent.
With upcoming matches against Rwanda in Kigali on March 21 and Zimbabwe in Uyo four days later, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Nigeria’s World Cup qualification campaign has been anything but smooth, and Chelle knows he has no time to ease into the job. His selection of a 39-man squad is a bold statement, one that blends familiar faces with exciting new prospects.
Chelle has largely retained the backbone of the squad that finished second at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). The defensive unit remains solid, led by Captain William Troost-Ekong, who emerged as Player of the Tournament at the last edition of the AFCON in Cote’d Ivoire. Alongside him are the likes of Calvin Bassey (Fulham), Ola Aina (Nottingham Forest), and Bruno Onyemaechi (Olympiacos) provide stability at the back.
In midfield, Wilfred Ndidi (Leicester City) returns after missing AFCON due to injury, joining Alex Iwobi (Fulham) and Frank Onyeka (Augsburg). Their presence brings much-needed creativity and experience to the squad.
Up front, the attack is spearheaded by Napoli’s Victor Osimhen, currently on loan at Galatasaray, while Ademola Lookman, the newly crowned African Footballer of the Year, adds firepower on the wings.
Beyond the familiar names, Chelle has introduced a few surprises. Slavia Prague’s Igoh Ogbu, Enugu Rangers’ Ifeanyi Onyebuchi, and CHAN Eagles standout, Papa Daniel Mustapha are among the defensive reinforcements hoping to make an impression. Turkey-based Anthony Dennis and Sevilla’s Akor Adams add attacking depth, while Getafe youngster, Christantus Uche and Genk striker, Tolu Arokodare receive their first international call-ups.
Additionally, there’s a recall for some experienced players, including Captain Ahmed Musa, Nathan Tella, Paul Onuachu, Jordan Torunarigha, and Cyriel Dessers. Their return signals Chelle’s intent to blend youth with seasoned professionals as he builds a team capable of competing on the world stage.
For Chelle, these selections are more than just names on a list, they represent the first steps in defining his era as Super Eagles coach. The task ahead is enormous. Nigeria’s qualification campaign is already under pressure, and anything short of convincing performances against Rwanda and Zimbabwe could raise doubts about his appointment.
But Chelle appears ready for the challenge. By keeping faith in key AFCON stars while opening the door for emerging talent, he is sending a clear message: the Super Eagles will fight their way back to the top.
Nigeria sits in fifth position after four rounds of matches with three points without a win, losing one and three draws in the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers. Can Nigeria make it to the Next World Cup in South America? Fingers Crossed?
