Osimhen, Troost-Ekong Lead Chelle’s 23-Man List for 2026 WCQ Against Rwanda, South Africa
Nigeria’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches against South Africa and Rwanda will have a 23-man roster, with captain William Troost-Ekong and attacker Victor Osimhen of Napoli at the top of the list, according to Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle.
The team was unveiled by the NFF on Friday and includes a good mix of domestic and international talents. Prominent players such as goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, Alex Iwobi, Samuel Chukwueze, and Ademola Lookman are also included.
As the Super Eagles continue to fight for a spot in the 2026 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, Nigeria will play Rwanda in Uyo before travelling to South Africa to face Bafana Bafana in Bloemfontein.
In order to improve their chances of reaching the 2026 finals, Chelle stated that Nigeria, who are presently in fourth place in Group C of the African qualifiers, is intent on earning as many points as possible from both games.
“We know the importance of these games. The players called up are ready to give their best for the country,” the coach noted.
SEE FULL LIST OF 23 PLAYERS INVITED BELOW
Goalkeepers: Stanley Nwabali (Chippa United, South Africa); Amas Obasogie (Singida Black Stars, Tanzania); Adeleye Adebayo (Volos FC, Greece)
Defenders: William Troost-Ekong (Al-Kholood, Saudi Arabia); Calvin Bassey (Fulham FC, England); Olaoluwa Aina (Nottingham Forest, England); Bright Osayi-Samuel (Birmingham City, England); Bruno Onyemaechi (Olympiacos, Greece); Chidozie Awaziem (Nantes FC, France); Felix Agu (Werder Bremen, Germany); Benjamin Frederick (Dender FC, Belgium)
Midfielders: Alex Iwobi (Fulham FC, England); Frank Onyeka (Brentford FC, England); Wilfred Ndidi (Beşiktaş JK, Turkey); Fisayo Dele-Bashiru (SS Lazio, Italy); Raphael Onyedika (Club Brugge, Belgium); Christantus Uche (Getafe CF, Spain)
Forwards: Ademola Lookman (Atalanta BC, Italy); Samuel Chukwueze (AC Milan, Italy); Victor Osimhen (Napoli, Italy); Moses Simon (FC Nantes, France); Cyriel Dessers (Glasgow Rangers, Scotland); Tolu Arokodare (KRC Genk, Belgium)
