2026 World Cup Qualifier: Osimhen leads Star-studded Super Eagles squad

The Super Eagles have unveiled a 23-man squad for this month’s pivotal FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Benin and Lesotho, blending established stars with hungry newcomers as Nigeria look to keep their road to the 2026 World Cup firmly on track.

Join the Premium Times WhatsApp Community For Quick Access To News and Happenings Around You.

Open in WhatsApp

Head coach Eric Chelle has opted for continuity in key positions while introducing fresh energy into the side; a clear signal that the Super Eagles mean business in a qualifying campaign that has already proven unpredictable across Africa.

Goalkeepers: Nwabali Still No. 1

In goal, Stanley Nwabali retains the gloves after his standout displays at the AFCON and in earlier qualifiers. He is joined once again by Amas Obasogie and Adebayo Adeleye, with the Chippa United shot-stopper widely expected to keep his No.1 shirt.

Defence: Semi Ajayi Returns amid injury concerns

The backline sees the return of Semi Ajayi, called up following Ola Aina’s injury in the 1-1 draw with South Africa in Bloemfontein.

Ajayi joins William Troost-Ekong, Fulham’s Calvin Bassey, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Bruno Onyemaechi, promising young talent Benjamin Fredrick, and Felix Agu, offering a blend of experience, versatility, and youth as Nigeria strenghten defensively.

Link to the list on (X)

Midfield: Balance of Grit and Creativity

Nigeria’s engine room will again feature Alex Iwobi, Wilfred Ndidi, and Brentford’s Frank Onyeka, who bring experience and bite. Also back is Alhassan Yusuf of New England Revolution, whose tireless running and technical quality earned him another chance after missing the last call-up.

Stay Ahead with Premium Times

Add as a preferred source on Google

Attack: Firepower galore

If there is one area Nigeria look most dangerous, it’s the forward line.

Victor Osimhen headlines a fearsome attacking cast alongside Ademola Lookman, Moses Simon, Samuel Chukwueze, and Cyriel Dessers, who keeps his place despite criticism from his last outing.

There’s also a double boost: Nice’s Terem Moffi returns to the fold, while Akor Adams finally appears set for his long-awaited debut after several near misses. New invitee Ola Olusegun completes a frontline brimming with pace, power, and goals.

Full 23-Man Super Eagles Squad

Goalkeepers: Stanley Nwabali, Amas Obasogie, Adebayo Adeleye

Defenders: Felix Agu, Bruno Onyemaechi, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Benjamin Fredrick, Calvin Bassey, William Troost-Ekong, Semi Ajayi

Midfielders: Alex Iwobi, Wilfred Ndidi, Frank Onyeka, Alhassan Yusuf

Forwards: Moses Simon, Ademola Lookman, Tolu Arokodare, Victor Osimhen, Terem Moffi, Cyriel Dessers, Samuel Chukwueze, Akor Adams, Ola Olusegun

What it means

Nigeria sit at a critical point in their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign. After drawing with South Africa, the Super Eagles must secure maximum points against Benin and Lesotho to keep their path to the tournament clear.

READ ALSO: U-20 World Cup: Flying Eagles edge Saudi Arabia to revive hopes

This squad reflects both urgency and ambition: Eric Chelle is backing proven winners like Osimhen and Troost-Ekong to set the tone, while introducing fresh faces such as Akor Adams and Ola Olusegun to add unpredictability.

With two decisive fixtures on the horizon, this blend of experience and youth will be expected to deliver not just results, but a statement of intent that Nigeria remain one of Africa’s true giants on the road to North America 2026.