Nigeria have unveiled a 23-man squad for October’s decisive 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Lesotho and Benin, with head coach Eric Chelle handing Sevilla striker Akor Adams his first senior call-up.
Captain William Troost-Ekong leads the roster, which also sees returns for Semi Ajayi, Terem Moffi, Alhassan Yusuf, and Olakunle Olusegun after spells away from the national side.
First-choice goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali retains his spot, backed up by Amas Obasogie and Adebayo Adeleye. In defence, Felix Agu, Bruno Onyemaechi, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Benjamin Fredrick, and Calvin Bassey join the fold.
The midfield will be marshalled by Alex Iwobi, Wilfred Ndidi, Frank Onyeka, and Alhassan Yusuf, offering a blend of creativity and steel.
Up front, Victor Osimhen headlines a formidable attack that also features Ademola Lookman, Moses Simon, Samuel Chukwueze, Cyriel Dessers, Tolu Arokodare, the recalled Olusegun, and debutant Adams.
The squad announcement comes at a crucial moment in Group C of the African qualifiers. Nigeria’s qualification hopes had been faltering after five draws in eight matches, but FIFA’s recent sanction against South Africa has revived their campaign.
The disciplinary ruling overturned South Africa’s 2–0 victory over Lesotho in March, instead awarding a 3–0 win to the Crocodiles. That decision cost Bafana Bafana three points and tightened the group standings.
Benin and South Africa now lead with 14 points apiece, while Nigeria and Rwanda follow closely on 11 points each. Lesotho have climbed to nine points, with Zimbabwe bottom on four and already eliminated.
For the Super Eagles, the new standings provide a lifeline. A victory over Lesotho in Polokwane on October 10 would bring them level with the group leaders ahead of their final home clash against Benin in Uyo on October 14.
Two wins would move Nigeria to 17 points, a tally that could secure automatic qualification depending on South Africa’s results. If not, Chelle’s men may still progress as one of the four best second-placed teams, though their current goal difference of plus two leaves them at a disadvantage compared to Benin and South Africa.
With qualification potentially hanging on fine margins, emphatic performances — and goals — will be vital for Nigeria’s push to reach the 2026 finals in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
