Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle has replaced injured duo Cyriel Dessers and Bright Osayi-Samuel with Zaidu Sanusi and Uche Christantus.
Nigeria faces Lesotho and Benin in crucial World Cup qualifiers.
SEE ALSO: Super Eagles Announce 23-Man Squad for Crucial World Cup Qualifiers
Super Eagles head coach, Eric Chelle, has made two late changes to his 23-man squad ahead of Nigeria’s decisive 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches against Lesotho and Benin Republic.
The adjustments were made after injuries ruled out forward Cyriel Dessers and defender Bright Osayi-Samuel. In their place, left-back Zaidu Sanusi and striker Uche Christantus have been called up to join the team. The revised list comes just two days after the original squad announcement on Friday.
Nigeria will face Lesotho on October 10 in Polokwane, South Africa, before returning to Uyo for a crucial home match against Benin Republic on October 14. Both games are vital to the country’s qualification hopes, with the Super Eagles needing maximum points to stay in contention for the 2026 World Cup, which will be hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Chelle’s side received a lifeline recently when FIFA deducted three points from South Africa for fielding an ineligible player, an outcome that boosted Nigeria’s standing in Group C. Benin and South Africa now share top spot with 14 points each, while Nigeria and Rwanda follow closely with 11 points apiece.
A win against Lesotho would bring the Super Eagles level with the leaders before the final group encounter in Uyo. Two victories could see Nigeria finish on 17 points, a total likely to secure a World Cup ticket depending on other results.
Captain William Troost-Ekong will lead the squad, supported by experienced players such as Semi Ajayi, Terem Moffi, Alhassan Yusuf, and Olakunle Olusegun. Stanley Nwabali remains first-choice goalkeeper, backed by Amas Obasogie and Adebayo Adeleye.
The defensive line features Felix Agu, Bruno Onyemaechi, Benjamin Fredrick, Calvin Bassey, and the returning Zaidu Sanusi. In midfield, Alex Iwobi, Wilfred Ndidi, Frank Onyeka, and Alhassan Yusuf are expected to anchor play.
The attack will be spearheaded by Victor Osimhen, with support from Ademola Lookman, Moses Simon, Samuel Chukwueze, Terem Moffi, Tolu Arokodare, Olakunle Olusegun, and debutant Gift Adams.
Chelle is banking on a strong finish from his players as Nigeria looks to secure its eighth FIFA World Cup appearance.
