Super Eagles Coach Éric Chelle unveils 23-Man squad against Rwanda, Zimbabwe

Super Eagles’ Head Coach Éric Sékou Chelle has announced his final 23-man squad for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe, with notable omissions including team captain Ahmed Musa and struggling forward Kelechi Iheanacho.

Chelle’s selection reflects a strategic focus on form and fitness, as he opts for a mix of experienced players and promising talents.

In the squad released on Tuesday, the coach has retained key players such as goalkeepers Stanley Nwabali and Kayode Bankole, defenders William Ekong, Calvin Bassey, and Olaoluwa Aina, midfielders Alex Iwobi and Wilfred Ndidi, and forwards Ademola Lookman, Victor Osimhen, and Moses Simon.

Also included in the squad are defenders Bruno Onyemaechi and Bright Osayi-Samuel, midfielders Raphael Onyedika and Alhassan Yusuf Abdullahi, and forwards Samuel Chukwueze and Sadiq Umar. 

A new face in the squad is Czech Republic-based defender Igoh Ogbu, who makes his debut appearance in the qualifiers. Home-based midfielder Papa Daniel Mustapha and Belgium-based forward Tolu Arokodare also made the final cut.

Nigeria will face Group C leaders Rwanda in Kigali on Friday, March 21, before hosting Zimbabwe’s Warriors at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium, Uyo, four days later on March 25.

The exclusion of Ahmed Musa and Kelechi Iheanacho signals a shift in Chelle’s approach, emphasizing performance and consistency over past reputation. Musa, who has been a long-time leader of the squad, has struggled for game time at club level, while Iheanacho’s recent form has been underwhelming.

With Nigeria’s qualification campaign for the 2026 FIFA World Cup gaining momentum, all eyes will be on the Super Eagles as they seek crucial victories against their Group C rivals.