BREAKING: Chelle releases 31-man Super Eagles squad for crucial 2026 World Cup qualifiers
Eric Chelle
Super Eagles head coach, Eric Chelle, on Friday unveiled a 31-man squad for Nigeria’s upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying fixtures against Rwanda and South Africa.
Nigeria will welcome Rwanda in their first match before travelling to Bloemfontein to face South Africa on September 9, in what promises to be a decisive test of the Eagles’ qualification chances.
The squad includes familiar names such as Napoli striker Victor Osimhen, Bayer Leverkusen forward Victor Boniface, Chippa United goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, Fulham defender Calvin Bassey, and captain William Troost-Ekong.
Chelle also retained the core of the team that featured in the last international window, balancing youth with experience.
The stakes are high for Nigeria, who currently occupy fourth place in Group C with seven points.
The Super Eagles trail group leaders South Africa, second-placed Rwanda, and third-placed Benin Republic. Only the group winner is guaranteed automatic qualification for the expanded World Cup, to be co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada next year.
Chelle acknowledged the importance of the fixtures, stressing that the team must avoid further slip-ups after a mixed start to their campaign. “Every point matters at this stage. We have to approach both games with total commitment, focus, and unity if we want to be in North America next year,” he said.
Analysts believe the matches could define Nigeria’s path to the tournament, given the tight nature of the group.
The clash against Rwanda in Abuja will test the Eagles’ ability to dominate at home, while the away fixture in South Africa is expected to be one of the toughest encounters in the qualifiers.
With just a few rounds of qualifiers left, the Super Eagles’ destiny remains in their hands. Victories in September could propel them back to the top of the group and put them firmly on course for a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
