Captain William Troost-Ekong headlines the squad, while there are recalls for Semi Ajayi, Terem Moffi, Alhassan Yusuf, and Olakunle Olusegun.
Squad Breakdown
First-choice goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali retains his spot, supported by Amas Obasogie and Adebayo Adeleye. In defence, Chelle has selected Felix Agu, Bruno Onyemaechi, Bright Osayi, Benjamin Fredrick, and Calvin Bassey.
The midfield is anchored by Alex Iwobi, Wilfred Ndidi, Frank Onyeka, and Alhassan Yusuf, offering a mix of creativity and defensive cover.
Up front, Nigeria’s attack is led by Victor Osimhen, with Ademola Lookman, Moses Simon, Samuel Chukwueze, Terem Moffi, Cyriel Dessers, Tolu Arokodare, and Olakunle Olusegun joining debutant Adams.
A Campaign Back from the Brink
The squad announcement comes at a critical juncture in Group C of the African qualifiers. Nigeria’s qualification hopes had dimmed after a series of five draws in eight matches. But a recent FIFA disciplinary ruling has dramatically altered the standings.
The decision overturned South Africa’s 2–0 win over Lesotho in March, awarding a 3–0 victory to the Crocodiles instead. The sanction stripped Bafana Bafana of three vital points, leaving them tied with Benin at the top of the table on 14 points. Nigeria and Rwanda follow on 11, while Lesotho now have nine. Zimbabwe, with four, are already eliminated.
High-Stakes Fixtures Ahead
For the Super Eagles, the door to automatic qualification has reopened. Victory against Lesotho in Polokwane on October 10 would pull them level with the leaders, setting up a decisive home clash against Benin in Uyo on October 14.
Two wins would take Nigeria to 17 points, potentially enough to seal qualification depending on South Africa’s results. If not, Chelle’s men could still advance as one of the four best runners-up across Africa — though their modest goal difference of +2 leaves them at a disadvantage.
That reality makes emphatic performances essential if Nigeria are to secure a return to the World Cup in 2026, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.