Nigeria has released a 23-man squad for October’s crucial 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Lesotho and Benin.
Victor Osimhen headlines the attack, with Sevilla striker Akor Adams earning his first call-up.
Nigeria has unveiled a 23-man squad for October’s decisive 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches against Lesotho and Benin. Head coach Eric Chelle confirmed the list on Friday, with Sevilla striker Akor Adams handed his first-ever call-up.
Key inclusions and returns
Captain William Troost-Ekong leads the team, while Semi Ajayi, Terem Moffi, Alhassan Yusuf and Olakunle Olusegun return after missing recent fixtures.
In goal, Stanley Nwabali remains first choice, supported by Amas Obasogie and Adebayo Adeleye.
The defensive lineup features Felix Agu, Bruno Onyemaechi, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Benjamin Fredrick and Calvin Bassey.
The midfield will be driven by Alex Iwobi, Wilfred Ndidi, Frank Onyeka and the recalled Alhassan Yusuf, giving Chelle both balance and creativity.
In attack, Victor Osimhen headlines a powerful forward line alongside Ademola Lookman, Moses Simon, Samuel Chukwueze, Terem Moffi, Cyriel Dessers, Tolu Arokodare, Olakunle Olusegun and debutant Adams.
Group C battle heats up
The announcement comes at a tense moment in Group C of the African qualifiers. Nigeria’s qualification hopes had been in doubt after managing just five draws in eight matches. However, FIFA’s recent sanction against South Africa has transformed the standings.
In March, South Africa’s 2–0 victory over Lesotho was overturned and awarded as a 3–0 win to the Crocodiles, stripping Bafana Bafana of three vital points.
This ruling means Benin and South Africa now sit on 14 points each, Nigeria and Rwanda follow on 11, Lesotho has nine, while Zimbabwe is bottom with four and already eliminated.
What Nigeria must do
For the Super Eagles, the development offers a new lifeline. Victory over Lesotho in Polokwane on October 10 would move Nigeria level with the leaders. Four days later, a home win against Benin in Uyo could take them to 17 points, a total that may guarantee direct qualification depending on other results.
If automatic qualification slips away, Nigeria can still qualify as one of the four best runners-up across the continent. However, goal difference will be decisive. Currently, Nigeria’s tally stands at +2, behind South Africa and Benin. To improve their chances, Chelle’s men will need emphatic victories in their final fixtures.
