Eric Chelle named a forward-heavy 23-man squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifier clashes against Lesotho and the Benin Republic.

With only two matches in the qualifiers left, the Super Eagles' hopes of making the 2026 World Cup hang in the balance. Nigeria need to win both matches and score many goals, and to achieve that aim, Chelle called upon nine forwards.

Chelle named nine attackers in the 23-man squad, including Victor Osimhen, whose fitness remains a source of concern after he limped off against Liverpool in the Champions League. 

However, Galatasaray coach Okan Buruk confirmed that he is expected to face Besiktas tomorrow, a major boost for Nigeria’s qualifying hopes. Nice’s Terem Moffi made a return for the first time in over a year, while Pari Nizhny Novgorod winger Olakunle Olusegun, who made his debut in June, made the list. 

Despite Kelechi Iheanacho's excellent start to his Celtic career, he did not make the list. And for his debut call-up, Sevilla's Akor Adams made the shortlist.

A source of concern, however, is the paucity of midfield options. With only four midfielders making the list, Alex Iwobi, Frank Onyeka, Wilfred Ndidi, and Alhassan Yusuf. This might be due to the current injury status of Raphael Onyedika and Fisayo Dele Bashiru. Or just tactical, given the need to score goals this window.

Ola Aina has remained injured since the last international break, while Semi Ajayi made his return to the Super Eagles squad. 

• Goalkeepers: Stanley Nwabali, Amas Obasogie, Adebayo Adeleye 

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

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

• Forwards: Moses Simon, Ademola Lookman, Victor Osimhen, Olakunle Olasegun, Terem Moffi, Tolu Arokodare, Cyriel Dessers, Samuel Chukwueze, Akor Adams.

The Super Eagles were handed a crucial lifeline in their World Cup qualifying ambitions after FIFA docked South Africa, the previous Group C leaders, three points and three goals. 

Prior to the punishment, Nigeria were six points behind South Africa while also trailing Bafana Bafana’s goal difference by six goals. 

However, the Benin Republic now lead the way. They are jointly in 14 points with South Africa. They have a goal difference of +4, hence they edge Bafana Bafana, who have a goal difference of +3.

Nigeria have 11 points and a goal difference of +2. Hence, it might not be enough to win both matches; scoring a significant amount of goals could become required.