Chelle unveils Super Eagles squad for World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda, South Africa

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has announced his final 23-man squad for Nigeria’s upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and South Africa.

The squad, released on Friday by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), features a mix of regular stars and emerging talents as Nigeria look to revive their qualification campaign.

Captain William Troost-Ekong, Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, and Alex Iwobi headline the list, alongside dependable names such as Wilfred Ndidi, Moses Simon, Ola Aina, Samuel Chukwueze, and Calvin Bassey.

Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali retains his place despite a recent injury scare, while youngsters Felix Agu, Benjamin Fredericks, Christantus Uche, and Tolu Arokodare have also been included following impressive recent performances.

Nigeria, currently fourth in Group C, will host Rwanda at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on September 6, before travelling to Bloemfontein to face long-time rivals South Africa on September 9.

Both fixtures are seen as crucial to the Super Eagles’ bid to return to the World Cup, after failing to qualify for the 2022 edition in Qatar.

Final 23-Man Super Eagles Squad

Goalkeepers: Stanley Nwabali (Chippa United, RSA), Amas Obasogie (Singida Blackstars, TAN), Adeleye Adebayo (Volos FC, GRE)

Defenders: William Troost-Ekong, Calvin Bassey, Ola Aina, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Bruno Onyemaechi, Chidozie Awaziem, Felix Agu, Benjamin Fredericks

Midfielders: Alex Iwobi, Frank Onyeka, Wilfred Ndidi, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, Raphael Onyedika, Christantus Uche

Forwards: Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, Samuel Chukwueze, Moses Simon, Cyriel Dessers, Tolu Arokodare