Eric Chelle names doubtful Nwabali in 23-man Super Eagles squad for 2026 World Cup qualifiers

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has announced a final 23-man squad for next month’s important 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches against Rwanda and South Africa, with captain William Ekong, Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman among the headline names.

The list features a blend of experience and fresh talent. Skipper William Ekong, midfield generals Alex Iwobi, Wilfred Ndidi and Raphael Onyedika, as well as attacking trio Ademola Lookman, Samuel Chukwueze and Victor Osimhen, are all set to spearhead Nigeria’s quest for six points in September.

Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, who impressed at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, retains his spot after despite doubtful for the games due to injury.

The squad also welcomes back Adeleye Adebayo, the Greece-based shot-stopper, while emerging talents Felix Agu and Benjamin Fredericks, standouts at the Unity Cup earn their places.

Forwards Christantus Uche and Tolu Arokodare are also rewarded for strong displays, including their performances in the June friendly against Russia.

The Super Eagles will host Rwanda’s Amavubi in Uyo on Saturday, 6th September, before travelling to Bloemfontein for a high-stakes clash with South Africa’s Bafana Bafana on Tuesday, 9th September.

Goalkeepers

Stanley Nwabali (Chippa United, South Africa)

Amas Obasogie (Singida Blackstars, Tanzania)

Adeleye Adebayo (Volos FC, Greece)

Defenders

William Ekong (Al-Kholood, Saudi Arabia)

Calvin Bassey (Fulham, England)

Ola Aina (Nottingham Forest, England)

Bright Osayi-Samuel (Birmingham City, England)

Bruno Onyemaechi (Olympiakos, Greece)

Chidozie Awaziem (Nantes, France)

Felix Agu (Werder Bremen, Germany)

Benjamin Fredericks (Dender FC, Belgium)

Midfielders

Alex Iwobi (Fulham, England)

Frank Onyeka (Brentford, England)

Wilfred Ndidi (Besiktas, Turkey)

Fisayo Dele-Bashiru (SS Lazio, Italy)

Raphael Onyedika (Club Brugge, Belgium)

Christantus Uche (Getafe, Spain)

Forwards

Ademola Lookman (Atalanta, Italy)

Samuel Chukwueze (AC Milan, Italy)

Victor Osimhen (Galatasaray, Turkey)

Simon Moses (Paris FC, France)

Cyriel Dessers (Rangers, Scotland)

Tolu Arokodare (Genk, Belgium)