Nigeria’s 23-man Super Eagles squad for this month’s 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe has been confirmed. Head coach Eric Chelle unveiled the final list on Tuesday, March 11, via the Super Eagles’ official social media channels, trimming it down from the provisional 39-man squad that had sparked considerable debate last week.
Star Players Lead Super Eagles’ Attack
Chelle has opted for a balanced selection featuring three goalkeepers, six defenders, six midfielders, and eight forwards. As expected, key Super Eagles regulars made the cut, with Africa Player of the Year Ademola Lookman and Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen spearheading the attack.
Stanley Nwabali retains his place as one of the goalkeepers, while experienced defenders William Troost-Ekong and Calvin Bassey provide solidity at the back. In midfield, Wilfred Ndidi and Frank Onyeka will be crucial in controlling the game. Genk forward Tolu Arokodare and former Enyimba goalkeeper Amas Obasogie also secured spots in the squad.
Notably, 16 players from the initial list were dropped, including Göztepe youngster Anthony Dennis and Southampton striker Paul Onuachu. The exclusion of Onuachu, in particular, raised eyebrows, given his goal-scoring form in club football.
Super Eagles Prepare for Crucial Matches
Nigeria will face Rwanda in Kigali on March 21 before returning to the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo to take on Zimbabwe on March 25. These two fixtures are crucial for the Super Eagles, who have struggled in their World Cup qualifying campaign.
The team has drawn three matches and suffered a 2-1 defeat to Benin Republic before Chelle’s appointment as manager in January. The former Mali national team coach made history by becoming the first non-Nigerian African to lead the Super Eagles. With high expectations, he will be tasked with reviving Nigeria’s qualification hopes.
The Super Eagles will need to secure maximum points from both games to get back on track and avoid missing out on the 2026 World Cup. Fans will be eagerly watching to see if Chelle’s squad selection and tactics can bring about a much-needed turnaround.
Stay tuned to 9am News Nigeria for more Breaking News, Business News, Sports updates And Entertainment Gists.
