Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has released a 23-man squad for Nigeria’s upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Lesotho and Benin Republic in October.
The list features a first call-up for Akor Adams of Sevilla, while Captain William Troost-Ekong headlines a squad that includes returning players Semi Ajayi, Terem Moffi, Alhassan Yusuf, and Olakunle Olusegun.
Stanley Nwabali retains his place as first-choice goalkeeper, backed by Amas Obasogie and Adebayo Adeleye. Defenders include Felix Agu, Bruno Onyemaechi, Bright Osayi, Benjamin Fredrick, and Calvin Bassey.
The midfield is anchored by Wilfred Ndidi, Alex Iwobi, Frank Onyeka, and Alhassan Yusuf, offering a mix of experience and energy.
Up front, Victor Osimhen leads an attacking unit featuring Ademola Lookman, Moses Simon, Samuel Chukwueze, Terem Moffi, Cyriel Dessers, Tolu Arokodare, Olakunle Olusegun, and debutant Adams.
Nigeria’s qualification hopes were recently boosted by a FIFA disciplinary ruling that overturned South Africa’s 2–0 win over Lesotho in March. The decision awarded Lesotho a 3–0 win and docked Bafana Bafana three points, reshaping the Group C standings.
Benin and South Africa now lead with 14 points, followed by Nigeria and Rwanda on 11, Lesotho with 9, and Zimbabwe, already eliminated, on 4.
Victory against Lesotho in Polokwane on October 10 could lift Nigeria into joint top spot, ahead of a potentially decisive home clash against Benin in Uyo on October 14.
Two wins would take the Super Eagles to 17 points, likely enough for automatic qualification—depending on South Africa’s results. Failing that, Nigeria could still advance as one of Africa’s best four runners-up, where goal difference may be critical.
